Chapter 1
Chapter 1 Canine Obesity 5
Is There Such A Thing As Pleasantly Plump? 6
Is Your Dog Obese? 6
Causes Of Obesity In Pets 8
Age & Sex 8
Ailments 9
Breed Disposition 10
Congenital Factors Or Injuries 11
Inactivity 12
Malnutrition 13
Medications 13
Neutering 14
Physical Environment 14
Social Environment 14
Treats 15
Preventing Obesity 15
But Don't Take Our Word For It! 16
Chapter 2 Health Risks In Canines Caused By Obesity 17
Arthritis 18
Decreased Immune Function 19
Decreased Liver Function 20
Decreased Quality Of Life 20
Decreased Stamina 21
Diabetes Mellitus 21
Difficulty Breathing 21
Digestive Disorders 22
Heat Intolerance 22
Heart Disease & Increased Blood Pressure 23
Increased Risks During Surgery & Anesthesia 23
Increased Risks During Whelping 24
Increased Risk Of Cancer 24
Increased Risk Of Kidney Dysfunction 24
Orthopedic Problems 25
Skin Problems 25
Chapter 3 Getting Back To A Healthy Weight 26
Losing Weight The Smart Way 27
Determining Caloric Needs 27
Factors That Affect Your Dog's Nutritional Needs 28
The MER 29
Consider The Breed 31
Regular Food Vs. Diet Formulas 31
Keep The Weight Loss Gradual 32
Steps To Aid The Weight Loss Venture 33
Maintenance 33
New Diet Drug Approved 34
Nutritional Information 35
Fats 35
Proteins 36
Carbohydrates & Fiber 38
Minerals 38
Vitamins 40
Water 42
Exercise 43
Aerobic Exercise 44
Strength Training 44
The Home Cooked Option 45
The BARF Diet 46
Supplements 46
Potential Dietary Aids 47
Chitin/Chitosan 47
Chromium Picolinate 48
CoEnzyme Q10 48
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) 49
Garcinia Cambogia 49
L-Carnitine 49
Pyruvate 50
Additives To Avoid 50
Veterinary Care 50
Calorie Calculations According to Dog Size 52
Chapter 4 Weight Loss Recipes 53
Cheeseburger Blend 56
Crockpot Chicken Chow 57
Fish & Egg Scramble 58
Frozen Beef Packs 59
Ground Beef Mix 61
Mom's Meatloaf 62
Salmon Special 64
Turkey & Apple Skillet Shakeup 66
Turkey Kebabs With Eggplant Puree 67
Whitefish Stew 69
Addendum 71
Canine Body Condition Scoring 71
Prevalence of Canine Obesity By Gender & Neuter Status 71
General Caloric Requirements For The Active, Adult Dog 72
Caloric Requirements Reflecting Varying Needs Of The Dog 72
Application Of The MER To Varying Activity Levels & Life Stages 73
Sources & Benefits Of Omega-3 & Omega-6 Fatty Acids 73
Recommended Daily Allowances For Proteins & Fats In Canines 74
Recommended Daily Allowances For Minerals In Canines 75
Recommended Daily Allowances For Vitamins In Canines 76
Keeping Homemade Food Healthful 77
Resources 78
Bibliography 78
Websites 78
Chapter 1 Canine Obesity
Is There Such A Thing As Pleasantly Plump?
Your dog is fat. OK, possibly not. But there's a very good chance he is, and you don't even know it. Statistics vary, but veterinarians report that as many as 25 - 44% of all dogs are overweight, and that obesity is the number-one canine health disorder. Obesity is defined as weighing over 15% more than the standard accepted weight for the dog's height.
With nearly half of our dogs weighing in on the heavy side, it's no surprise, then, that obesity-related conditions are on the rise within the pet population. These conditions include diabetes mellitus and orthopedic, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, endocrine, respiratory, immune and reproductive disorders. These can be devastating conditions for the dog to live with.
Doctors ascribe the rise in obesity to a combination of the general lack of fussiness of dogs, their natural gorging behavior, and insufficient exercise. And since dogs don't do their own grocery shopping or prepare their own meals, we must add to this a prevailing ignorance among their owners in providing a nutritious, well-balanced, calorie-controlled diet.
Do you know if your dog is fat or fit? Do you know her daily caloric requirements? Do you know what factors may mitigate those daily caloric requirements?
A healthy dog is ready to eat at any time. Some dogs quite literally can eat while flat on their side and more or less asleep. Therefore, it is pointless to use your dog's begging behavior as any indicator of how much to feed him. Knowing how many calories he needs and how that translates into energy will help keep him trim and healthy. Energy needs for the dog change throughout his life, increasing the more active he becomes, and, as you might surmise, decreasing as the dog reaches his senior years.
Is Your Dog Obese?
Your vet will determine if your dog's weight is on target, or if she is headed for fat city, and all diet-related considerations should definitely be discussed with your vet before introducing any major changes into your dog's nutritional sphere. But, before your next office visit, you can do an assessment to determine (albeit imprecisely) your dog's general body condition and weight.
❖ Can the ribs be easily felt with slight fat cover, or are they difficult to feel under moderate or thick fat cover?
❖ From the side view, do you see an abdominal tuck?
❖ Is there thickening at the tail base?
❖ From the overhead view, is there a well-proportioned waist?
❖ Or, from the overhead view, does she have a marked hourglass shape? (an indicator of being underweight)
❖ Or, from the overhead view, is the back slightly or markedly broadened at the waist? (indicators of being moderately to severely overweight)
❖ Is your dog slow to rise or move around?
❖ Is she reluctant to exercise, or does she tire easily with activity?
Dottie Laflamme, MS, DVM, PhD, and a Nestlé Purina PetCare
Senior Scientist, has designed a system, termed a Body Condition Score (BCS), that enables owners to identify potential obesity in their pets. The nine-point grading system defines the ideal condition as one in which the dog's ribs are easily felt and the waist and tuck-up (the belly area between ribcage and rear end) are discernible without being prominent. Diagram1 summarizes Dr. Laflamme's grading system:
[pic]
Causes Of Obesity In Pets
Obesity will generally result from eating too much and exercising too little. But, there are certainly contributing factors that can make it even more difficult for the dog to maintain a fit physique:
❖ Age & Sex
❖ Ailments
❖ Breed Disposition
❖ Congenital Factors or Injuries
❖ Inactivity
❖ Malnutrition
❖ Medications
❖ Neutering
❖ Physical Environment
❖ Social Environment
❖ Treats
Age & Sex
Puppies are rarely overweight. Their energy requirements are exorbitant, in support of their growth and activity levels. A dog that is being fed improperly, however, can begin to show signs of being overweight anytime between 2 and 12 years of age. It is especially common for dogs to begin to pack on the pounds around the six-year mark. As dogs enter the senior stage, everything slows down -- from their activity levels to their bodily functions.
About 70% of the dog’s caloric intake is applied to body maintenance. The remainder supplies the energy used for physical activity. Obviously, when the caloric intake exceeds the energy expense, the excess calories are stored as fat. As a dog ages, its metabolism and activity levels decline. If the supply of calories is not reduced accordingly, weight gain will clearly result.
Gender is also a predisposing factor, per some canine studies. Female dogs tend to be slightly over-represented in both overweight and obese categories. Chart 1, based on data from a joint study performed by Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc. and the College of Veterinary Medicine of the University of Minnesota, illustrates the slight gender bias.
Ailments
Certain diseases or conditions can contribute to obesity as well, including:
❖ Diabetes
❖ Hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing's Disease)
❖ Hypothyroidism
❖ Insulinoma
❖ Pituitary Gland Dysfunction
In a somewhat ironic twist, and an undoubtedly vicious cycle, obesity contributes to diabetes, which in turn contributes to further weight gain. A dog can develop a form of diabetes known as non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NDDM or Type II diabetes). When an overweight dog must increase his insulin production, thereby increasing his appetite and fat deposition, the insulin production cannot keep up with the demand. Increased blood glucose levels and fat deposition occur as the disease progresses. The dog ultimately becomes diabetic and severely obese.
Hyperadrenocorticism, or Cushing's Disease, is an endocrine disorder caused by high levels of adrenal steroid hormones, called glucocorticoids, in the blood. Glucocorticoids can alter metabolism and cause increases in appetite and fat deposition. For the dog to successfully lose weight, the disease must be managed.
Hypothyroidism is caused by insufficient production of the thyroid hormone by the thyroid gland. This hormone influences metabolic rate. With less comes a decreased metabolism, and therefore a decrease in energy needs. If the dog's supply of calories is not reduced accordingly, the inevitable result is weight gain.
Typically, before embarking on a weight reduction program, veterinarians will examine an overweight dog for hypothyroidism. The ailment must be treated before a weight reduction program will find success.
Insulinoma is a pancreatic tumor, comprised of insulin-producing cells. It results in the over-production of insulin, which in turn increases appetite and the formation of fat tissue.
The pituitary gland regulates the production of hormones of most of the body's glands. Any dysfunction can cause changes in various hormone levels and alter appetite, metabolism and fat deposition.
Breed Disposition
Indeed, there is evidence of breed proclivity to obesity. Owners of these breeds must be especially mindful of monitoring their dog's weight. Breeds included in this category include:
❖ Basset Hounds
❖ Beagles
❖ Cairn Terriers
❖ Cocker Spaniels
❖ Collies
❖ Dachsunds
❖ Golden Retrievers
❖ Labrador Retrievers
❖ Shetland Sheepdogs
Congenital Factors Or Injuries
Some conditions that are acquired, developed or present at birth can reduce the ambulatory capacity and increase the general discomfort level of the dog. The decreased ability to exercise ultimately contributes to weight gain. Some common conditions and injuries include:
❖ Cruciate ligament & meniscal injury
❖ Hip dysplasia
❖ Osteoarthritis
❖ Osteochondrosis dessicans
The cruciate ligaments are the two ligaments that crisscross in the joint from the femur to the tibia. The one toward the front is the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and the one behind it is the posterior cruciate ligament. One of the most common knee injuries in dogs is a ruptured ACL.
When the ACL is torn, it destabilizes the joint, resulting in the femur and tibia moving back and forth across each other. This ligament can be torn when the dog twists on his hind leg, as the twisting motion puts too much pressure on the ligament. Such a twist might occur as the result of a slip on a slippery surface, a sudden turn while running, or from being hit by a car. When the ACL is torn, the meniscus on the inside of the knee often becomes damaged as well.
Dogs with a ruptured cruciate ligament suddenly will appear lame. The knee may become swollen. In time, the dog may start to use the leg again, but the lameness can recur. Surgery is usually required for a full recovery. Meanwhile, the dog will be somewhat incapacitated, and prone to spending his days in sedentary mode.
To make matter worse, the injury itself can lead to degenerative joint disease (osteoarthritis) later in life. Osteoarthritis is a gradual, progressive condition resulting from the breakdown of cartilage, the dense, connective tissue of the bones and joints. As the cartilage deteriorates, the bones in the joints lose their cushion and begin to rub against each other unprotected. This leads to pain and, in most cases, inflammation.
In its later stages, osteoarthritis in the dog will cause stiffness, limping or difficulty with normal movement. Pain invariably develops, and ranges from mild to excruciating. As a result, the dog will avoid movement altogether.
Hip dysplasia is an inherited malformation of the hip joint wherein the ball and socket do not meet as agilely as they are intended. The result is an unstable joint, which allows for excess movement of the bones and leads to:
❖ Breakdown of the hip socket tissues
❖ Calcium deposits
❖ Chronic inflammation
❖ Muscle pain in the legs
Hip dysplasia is quite common in dogs, and is another contributing factor of osteoarthritis.
Osteochondrosis is a disease of the joints that causes a thickening and growth of cartilage that covers the head of a long bone. The defective cartilage results in poor development of the bone directly beneath it. When weight-bearing activities put pressure on the joint, the cartilage over the defective bone becomes traumatized and may develop fractures and fissures. Pieces of cartilage or bone may break off and become lodged in the joint space, causing lameness. Osteochondrosis can affect the shoulder, elbow, stifle joint and ankle and has been linked to poor breeding practices and inadequate diet.
Obesity can also lend itself to these conditions, further illustrating the ironic nature and vicious cycle of obesity.
Inactivity
Activity level plays a definitive role in deciding the caloric needs of a dog and his resultant tendency to add excess weight. An active dog will use more calories, obviously. In addition, and less obvious, is that an active dog's mental state may make him less likely to eat more because of boredom or stress.
Inactivity is an undeniable reflection on the dog owner. If the owner lives a very sedentary lifestyle, it is likely that they are passing on that behavior to the dog as well. Or, on the opposite end of the spectrum a very busy owner might not be making the time to properly and regularly exercise the dog, leaving him to just make do on his own in the yard. Opportunities for some prolonged exercise should be provided at least a few days each week. Time alone in a yard is not sufficient. The dog is unlikely to run around just for the sake of exercise.
Malnutrition
While the dog's lack of fitness will result from too many calories, it is just as plausible that he will suffer from ingesting the wrong type of calories on a regular basis. Most commercial brand pet foods, even the so-called "premium" brands, are formulated for mass production, with a keen eye on the bottom line, and increasing profit margins.
Convenience and cost considerations create products that feature wheat, corn, soy or casein products as primary ingredients, rather than the nutritionally superior proteins, fatty acids and quality fiber sources that would result in better health. The customary practice of diluting the food production process with inferior additives, fillers, preservatives, flavors and by-products can leave the dog malnourished.
In addition to a poor diet, malnutrition is caused by indiscriminate feeding habits including the mindless feeding of table scraps and allowing the animal constant access to food. The poorly nourished animal can then suffer hormonal imbalances that may lead to damaged metabolism.
Medications
Some medications influence the dog's appetite and metabolism, as well. Among those that are said to cause weight gain in dogs are:
❖ Barbiturates, such as phenobarbital --> used to control epilepsy
❖ Benzodiazepines, such as valium --> used as a sedative, anticonvulsant, and to treat anxiety & other behavior disorders
❖ Steroids, such as prednisone & dexamethasone --> used for allergy relief and as cancer-fighting chemotherapy agents
Neutering
Some experts assert that the notion of castrating and spaying as being causative factors in canine obesity is a myth. Others counter that neutering lowers the animal's metabolic rate to such a degree that weight gain is inevitable.
Most likely, the truth lies somewhere in the middle. As Chart 1 illustrates, there is evidence that the prevalence of obesity is higher in neutered dogs than in those left intact. In addition to changes in metabolism, androgens and estrogens (male and female sex hormones, respectively) stimulate roaming behavior and general physical activity. Estrogen also has the effect of decreasing appetite.
With the decrease in the his energy needs, the neutered dog will, of course, gain weight if the owner continues to feed the animal his pre-surgery diet. However, it is the combination of influences that is key here. Castrating and spaying do not cause obesity. The predisposition is on the owner to remain blind to the dog's changing needs, and to overfeed and under-exercise them afterwards, which then leads to the weight gain.
Physical Environment
Maintaining body temperature is an energy-consuming task. An outside dog that must maintain an environment with temperatures below freezing will increase his caloric requirements by as much as 30%. That same dog will need much less food when the temperatures are warmer.
Conversely, an inside dog uses relatively few calories to maintain normal body temperature, and the energy needs will remain comparatively stable throughout the year.
Social Environment
Dogs mirror people in their responses to stress. For the dog, such strains can include a change in the routine or a new addition to the household. The dog's response may be to mindlessly overeat, or to beg for attention. In turn, the owner's response to the latter might be to mindlessly toss unhealthful snacks the dog's way because they don't wish to be bothered by the dog behaving as a nuisance.
Nutritionists also suggest that dogs will often eat out of boredom, rather than actual hunger. It is another reminder that an active dog is a healthy dog.
Furthermore, dogs that live in multi-dog or multi-pet households tend to eat more and faster than those in one-dog households do. This change in behavior when other animals are present is known as social facilitation. The competition for food, whether perceived or actual, has some dogs believing it is necessary to gulp their food, which then leads to overeating and, ultimately, extra pounds.
Treats
Feeding too many treats or providing scraps from the table is all too common. Over time, those few "little" calories here and there add up to extra pounds. In addition, most commercially prepared snacks have little nutritional value, and are high in fat, starches, sugars, sodium and synthesized chemicals, added to make them appeal to the humans serving them. In short, they are empty, useless calories.
Treats do not have to be eliminated entirely, but snack options should be healthy ones, and the corresponding calorie counts should always be considered in the daily intake. Some healthful alternatives can be apples, bananas, carrot sticks and the like.
When offering a treat to the dog, the owner should always be aware of its calorie count and nutritional value and ensure that treats comprise less than 10% of the animal's daily intake. Indeed, the ASPCA recommends that treats constitute only 5% of the adult dog's daily intake.
Preventing Obesity
Preventing obesity is easier than initiating and succeeding at a weight loss program, once the pounds have already been packed on. The preventive measures are easy to instill as well:
❖ Feed a wholesome, nutritionally sound diet in the appropriate quantities --> this requires making changes to correspond with the dog's needs throughout his life
❖ Monitor the dog's weight --> routine weigh-ins will allow the owner to nip weight gain in the bud
❖ Monitor treats --> and offer attention instead of a bone
❖ Provide exercise --> its benefits go far beyond calorie burning
❖ Regulate dietary behaviors while the dog is young --> a dog that is fat young will likely be even fatter as it ages, and suffer a myriad of health consequences as a result
❖ Treat any contributing factors or diseases --> and don't leave the door open for an unhealthy lifestyle to take over
But Don't Take Our Word For It!
We are not veterinarians, nor experts in anything but loving our dogs. As such, none of the information supplied here should supplant the advice offered to you by your veterinarian. In compiling this manual, we seek to offer you a concise, educational reference to help you provide optimal health care for your dog.
Your veterinarian should be consulted on all matters relating to your dog, from diet and exercise to diagnosis and treatment of any ailments. After all, your vet should be considered your dog's other best friend.
If you find yourself consistently at odds with the advice your vet offers and the information you have learned for yourself, then it is most likely time to find a new vet, one whose ideology and sensitivities more closely resemble yours. Health care is not now, nor is it likely ever to be an exact science and practicing Doctors of Veterinary Medicine (DVMs) vary widely on a whole host of care and treatment issues.
What they all should have in common with us, though, is that the care, health and well being of your dog are the number one priorities.
Chapter 2 Health Risks In Canines Caused By Obesity
Obesity-related conditions in the canine are both vast and potentially devastating to the dog's overall quality of life. Committing to a healthy and fit lifestyle for the dog can have amazing results in avoiding many of these conditions.
Arthritis
There are more than 100 different diseases that comprise the comprehensive term arthritis. These diseases vary in many respects, but share the common symptoms of pain and inflammation of the joints. In both humans and animals, the most common form of arthritis is osteoarthritis.
Osteoarthritis is a gradual, progressive condition resulting from the breakdown of cartilage, the dense, connective tissue of the bones and joints. As the cartilage deteriorates, the bones in the joints lose their cushion and begin to rub against each other unprotected. This leads to pain and, in most cases, inflammation.
Osteoarthritis is also termed degenerative joint disease (DJD) and hypertrophic arthritis, and these nomenclatures are often used interchangeably.
Osteoarthritis affects both the soft tissues and bones of a joint. It causes distress and an abatement of flexibility in the affected joints. Osteoarthritis can affect any joint in the body, but those most commonly affected include:
❖ Carpus (wrist)
❖ Elbow
❖ Hip
❖ Hock
❖ Intervertebral joints (the joints between the vertebrae of the spine)
❖ Shoulder
❖ Stifle (knee)
Scientists currently assert that the origins of osteoarthritis are rooted in metabolic changes in the cartilage itself. The progressive deterioration occurs when chondrocytes go askew. These are special cells in the cartilage that create collagen, amongst other substances. When there are issues with the chondrocytes, they instead produce cartilage-destroying enzymes and nitric oxide. In turn, nitric oxide causes oxidative damage to tissue and contributes to a process called apoptosis, which, interestingly enough, kills chondrocyte cells. The result is that the cartilage deteriorates faster than new cartilage can be produced. Improper diet is one of the causative factors of cell degeneration. In fact, the US veterinary community now cites poor nutrition, injury and heredity as the three primary causes of osteoarthritis.
Overfeeding is one example of poor nutrition. Overweight dogs are prone to osteoarthritis, and are more likely to develop the disease in several joints because of the excessive load on their joints. They are also more difficult to treat than healthy-weight dogs. Maintaining a healthy diet and exercising regularly are two of the principal preventive measures for the dog.
Decreased Immune Function
Decreased resistance to viral and bacterial infections is linked to obesity in dogs. In particular, Canine Distemper and Salmonella infections are more severe in dogs that are overweight.
Canine Distemper is a highly contagious viral disease that affects the respiratory and nervous systems and is often fatal. It can also affect the skin, brain, eyes and intestinal tract. The virus is transmitted through the air in addition to body secretions such as urine.
Death rates may be as high as 75%. Once affected, there is no direct treatment. Dogs that do recover from distemper may suffer permanent damage to vision as well as the nervous system. Affected puppies that recover can have severely mottled teeth due to abnormalities of the developing enamel. Distemper is largely prevented through vaccines.
Salmonella is a bacterium that attacks the dog's gastrointestinal system, resulting in abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea and fever. Lethargy and anorexia can result as well.
The reasons for this lowered resistance to disease in obese dogs are indeterminate.
Decreased Liver Function
The liver is responsible for:
❖ Detoxification of wastes
❖ Digestion of food
❖ Protein, fat, and carbohydrate metabolism, and
❖ Vitamin and mineral storage
It is a very complicated and hard-working organ. It is known to perform well over 1,000 different tasks, many of which are essential to life, and could not be performed elsewhere in the body. Among these functions is the storage of fat. When the animal is overweight, an increased amount of fat builds up in the liver. This is called hepatic lipidosis, and results in impaired liver function.
While this condition occurs more often in cats than dogs, the predisposing factor for either animal appears to be obesity. Severe impairment of liver function may affect the liver's ability to detoxify the blood. As toxins accumulate, the animal may exhibit symptoms of the disease, including:
❖ Anorexia
❖ Depress
❖ Drooling
❖ Jaundice
❖ Loss of muscle mass
❖ Seizures
❖ Vomiting
Decreased Quality Of Life
The dog's overall health and ability to play are diminished in overweight dogs. Overweight dogs may exhibit irritability from being hot, in pain, or simply uncomfortable. Overweight dogs die at a younger age than those maintained at an optimum weight.
It is obvious we our impeding our dog's health and overall well being when we allow them to become overweight. In addition, even when the associated health risks are treated, the dog may never fully recover his health as a result of these ailments, and therefore suffer needlessly for the rest of his life.
Decreased Stamina
The overweight dog, just like the overweight human, has decreased stamina and endurance. It is work to carry excess weight. In addition, the added weight puts an added strain on the heart, muscles, and respiratory system, affecting the dog's overall feeling of vitality.
Diabetes Mellitus
Diabetes mellitus, or sugar diabetes, is one of the most common manifestations of disease in the overweight dog. Obesity increases the secretion of insulin, in response to the increased blood glucose level in the animal. More insulin is also required, simply because of the increased amount of tissue in the overweight dog.
When the requirements for insulin exceed the ability of the body to manufacture it, diabetes mellitus develops.
The principal clinical signs of diabetes mellitus in dogs are:
❖ Cataracts
❖ Excessive urination
❖ Excessive water consumption
❖ Exercise intolerance
❖ Increased appetite
❖ Recurrent infections
❖ Weight loss, without a noticeable appetite change
Treatment, in some cases, includes oral hypoglycemics to lower blood glucose, but these have not been found to be especially effective in dogs. Insulin is the treatment of choice for dogs, and it must be administered via injection.
Difficulty Breathing
The lungs are unable to function properly in an overweight dog. Added fat in the chest restrains lung expansion. Further, extra fat in the abdomen pushes against the diaphragm, and separates the abdominal cavity from the chest. The result of this is even less space in the chest for the lungs to expand on inhalation. At the same time, the body puts an increased demand on the lungs to supply oxygen to feed its increased quantity of tissue.
The lung dysfunction can be especially problematic in the dog that already suffers from a respiratory disease.
Digestive Disorders
The most common symptoms of digestive problems are:
❖ Abdominal discomfort
❖ Flatulence
❖ Loose bowel movements
❖ Passing blood or mucous
❖ Straining
❖ Vomiting
Typically, digestive disorders would be the result of the same poor diet plan that is making the dog fat. Low quality foods with indigestible or unsuitable ingredients are more likely to cause problems than those containing easily digested contents.
Besides feeding a better quality food, quantity should be kept to its minimum necessary to satisfy energy requirements. Excessive food intake is the surest route to ruining the health and function of the digestive tract.
Heat Intolerance
Fat is a wonderful insulator, which is not good news to an overweight animal suffering the dog days of summer. An overweight dog is less able to regulate its body temperature. It is not uncommon for an overweight dog to languish from heat intolerance or heat stroke.
Signs of heat stroke are:
❖ Intense, rapid panting
❖ Salivating
❖ Staggering
❖ Weakness, and
❖ Wild eyes
In its advanced stages, the suffering dog will collapse and become unconscious. The gums will appear pale and dry. Any temperature above 106˚ F is dangerous. The danger increases with the duration of time spent at or above that temperature.
The detrimental effects of heat stroke can be transient or permanent. It can even be fatal.
Heart Disease & Increased Blood Pressure
While some dogs have congenital heart disease, most develop the problem. The heart is responsible for pumping the oxygen- carrying blood around the body, and when heart function is less than optimal, body tissues do not receive as much oxygen as they need. When the heart is no longer capable of doing its job effectively, the condition is referred to as heart failure. As the heart continues to work harder to pump flood, further damage can occur.
Of the dogs in the United States examined regularly by veterinarians, it is estimated that 3.2 million suffer from some form of heart disease, and many are in heart failure. Ultimately, this can lead to congestive heart failure.
Overweight dogs also tend to have higher blood pressure, which is known as hypertension. High blood pressure is also a precursor to heart disease. In addition, when high blood pressure goes undetected, and thereby untreated, it can lead to kidney failure, stroke or premature death.
Increased Risks During Surgery & Anesthesia
The effects of obesity on the heart and lungs have serious ramifications during anesthesia. Cardiac arrest heart stops and poor circulation of oxygenated blood to the tissues can occur.
Many of the anesthetics are consumed by fat cells. As a result, it will talk longer to revive the dog after surgery because the body must remove the anesthetic from the fat. Further, the liver processes many anesthetics. A fatty liver may not be as efficient at breaking down anesthetics and other drugs, so again, recovery may be delayed.
The increased fat in the tissues makes surgery more difficult. The surgeon literally has to search through fat tissues to reach the targeted area. For example, in abdominal surgery in an obese dog, there may be literally inches of fat between where the skin incision is made and the organ being treated, such as the urinary bladder. This makes the surgery technically more difficult and the procedure will also take longer, which further increases the anesthetic risk.
Increased Risks During Whelping
Obesity is a dangerous problem for pregnant dogs. It can cause inertia during whelping, which will result in the need for a Cesarean section. Inertia, in turn, is the greatest cause of stillborn puppies. During inertia, when the dog is unable to sustain contractions by strength or time, puppies die by suffocation when the placenta has already separated for the uterine wall. The placenta, which usually separates after delivery, is attached to the puppy by the umbilical cord and normally contains enough oxygen for a puppy's successful trip through the birth canal. If the birth is slowed through contraction difficulties, the puppy will suffocate.
Increased Risk Of Cancer
Obesity is a generally accepted canine cancer link. It is related to a high incidence of bladder cancer in dogs. There is some evidence, as well, that obesity increases the risk of mammary cancer.
Increased Risk Of Kidney Dysfunction
Because of the dog's increased size, the kidney is forced to deal with more toxins and wastes to process. Basically, the organ is overworked. If its filtration capacity becomes inadequate, toxins can circulate through the body excessively and damage other tissues, including the gastrointestinal tract, stomach, small and large intestines and the mouth. Toxins can also affect the central nervous system, resulting in some neurological symptoms, such as seizures.
Orthopedic Problems
An orthopedic injury refers to damage to the skeletal system or associated muscles, joints and ligaments. In non-working dogs, orthopedic problems stem from a general lack of fitness, whether or not the dog is actually overweight. Any overweight dog will be excessively stressing bone, muscles, joints and ligaments while engaged in active physical exercise. Jumping over obstacles, playing Frisbee, or retrieving far-flung tennis balls can test the limits of anatomical structures.
The lack of conditioning in tendons, ligaments, muscles and joints ultimately leads to orthopedic issues, particularly in middle aged and older dogs. Regular, short play periods is most definitely preferable to an infrequent, all-day round of vigorous exercise. Back, leg, knee and joint pain can result in poorly conditioned dogs that are unaccustomed to long periods of physical activity.
Skin Problems
Skin problems are also linked to obesity in dogs because excess fat deposits are stored in the skin, making grooming difficult. Without proper grooming, there is a tendency to accumulate bacteria, dirt, and other elements that harm the animal’s skin. In the end, rashes, skin ruptures, and infections develop as a result.
Chapter 3 Getting Back To A Healthy Weight
Losing Weight The Smart Way
Determining Caloric Needs
Table 1 is a general guideline for your dog's calorie requirements. Dogs, on average, need about 30 calories per pound of body weight per day to maintain their current weight. Small active dogs, weighing less than 20 lbs. can use up to 40 calories per pound per day. Large dogs, over 50 lbs., can use as little as 20 calories per pound per day.
Daily calorie requirements may be less for inactive or neutered dogs in hot climates. Conversely, and as you might expect, the requirements will increase for a working dog, a herding dog, and a dog that spends most of his time outdoors.
Individual metabolism, exercise, age, breed, environment and overall health will determine what your dog really needs to remain lean and healthy. There is extreme variability (as much as 20%) in the actual energy requirements of dogs weighing the same amount, since their activity level can vary greatly.
The recipe for weight loss in the obese dog is to increase his exercise, and feed him smaller meals, totaling about 60 - 70% of the typical calories required for its target weight. Adjustments should be made as necessary, pursuant to the dog's response to the program.
|General Daily Caloric Requirements For The Active, Adult Dog |
|Target Weight |Normal Caloric Requirements |
|5.5 lb (2.5 kg) |250 calories |
|11 lb (5 Kg) |450 calories |
|22 Lb (10 Kg) |750 calories |
|33 Lb (15 Kg) |1000 calories |
|44 Lb (20 Kg) |1250 calories |
|55 Lb (25 Kg) |1500 calories |
|66 Lb (30 Kg) |1700 calories |
|77 Lb (35 Kg) |1880 calories |
|88 Lb (40 Kg) |2100 calories |
|99 Lb (45 Kg) |2300 calories |
|110 Lb (50 Kg) |2500 calories |
|Table 1 |
Energy needs for the dog change throughout his life, increasing the more active he becomes, and obviously decreasing as the dog reaches his senior years.
Factors That Affect Your Dog's Nutritional Needs
Male and female sex hormones affect metabolism. When these hormones are reduced, through neutering, for example, many dogs develop a tendency to become overweight. After a dog is neutered, it will be necessary to reduce his intake by perhaps as much as 20%. The goal is to maintain the pre-surgical weight. If he starts to lose weight, gradually increase the amount until you meet his needs.
Pregnant dogs require very little increase in food until late in their pregnancy. It is necessary to increase the mother's food by 10% only during the last four weeks of the nine-week pregnancy. Post-birth and while lactating, she may need up to three times her normal daily food consumption. Lactation needs are greatest by the third week after birth, and increase with the size of the litter.
Dogs that are confined to small areas and get little exercise need fewer calories than those that are exercised regularly or allowed access to large yards. On the other hand, energy requirements increase by as much as 300% over a typical maintenance diet for hard-working dogs, such as those that hunt, race or herd.
Variations in temperature influence a dog's diet. The colder the temperature, the more energy a dog requires to maintain his body temperature. If your dog spends at least half his time outdoors during the cold winter months, for example, the amount of food he needs may double compared to what he normally eats during the summer.
As dogs mature, their metabolism and physical activity slow down. To help prevent the older dog from becoming obese, it will be necessary to decrease the amount of food offered. Many veterinarians and dog-food manufacturers consider the geriatric stage in a dog's life as beginning after 7 years of age. Keep in mind, however, that the aging rate varies with different breeds. Some signs that the dog is slowing down and may need a change in diet include:
❖ Increases in body weight
❖ Changes in vision and hearing
❖ Difficulty in moving
❖ Changes in bowel or urinary behavior
❖ Bad breath possibly due to teeth or gum problems
Conversely, severe illness or trauma may double a dog's energy needs. Whenever your dog becomes ill, it is best to consult with your veterinarian to determine your dog's changed nutritional needs.
The growing puppy needs about twice as many calories per pound of body weight as an adult of the same breed. You should start giving puppies food at approximately four weeks after birth in multiple, well-spaced meals. Puppies are considered to be growing until they reach adulthood -- around 9 - 18 months, depending on breed.
Table 2 offers some alternative calculations for these varying factors for your dog. Again, these are to be considered guidelines only.
|Caloric Requirements Reflecting Varying Needs Of The Dog |
|Size Of Dog |10 Lb |30 Lb |50 Lb |70 Lb |90 Lb |
|Puppies (10 Lb, 33 Lb At Maturity) |990 |----- |----- |----- |----- |
|Young Adult Active Dogs |436 |993 |1451 |1876 |2264 |
|Inactive Dogs |296 |674 |989 |1272 |1540 |
|Adult Active Dogs |404 |922 |1353 |1740 |2100 |
|Pregnant Dogs |518 |1274 |1940 |2570 |3170 |
|"Dieting" Dogs |270 |580 |880 |1100 |1250 |
|Older Active Dogs |327 |745 |1093 |1407 |1700 |
|Table 2 |
The MER
Another way to estimate the caloric requirements of your dog is to calculate his Metabolic Energy Requirement (MER), as defined by the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine in 1995. The MER for dogs is the amount of energy used by a moderately active dog in a thermoneutral environment. It is meant to be an average, therefore it represents the energy expended in obtaining and using food in an amount sufficient to maintain body weight, but not to support growth, pregnancy or lactation. It is important to remember that the calculated MER only represents an estimate of actual energy need.
The formula for calculating the MER is:
MER = 132 x (body weight in kilograms)0.75
So, to determine the average, estimated calorie requirements of a 30-pound dog, you would perform the following calculations:
1) Convert pounds to kilograms:
1lb = 0.454 kg
30 lb x 0.454 = 13.62 kg
2) Determine the metabolic body weight:
(kg)0.75
(13.62)0.75 = 7.10
3) Multiply the metabolic body weight by 132:
7.10 x 132 = 937.2 or 937 kcal/day
The application of the MER formula to account for the different activity levels and life stages of the dog is then performed according to weighted categories. Table 3 illustrates some weighted categories, measured against the 30-pound dog calculation that was performed above, netting the average daily requirement of 937 calories for the moderately active adult dog.
|Application of The MER To Reflect Varying Activity Levels & Life Stages In Dogs |
|Activity Level |MER |Kcal/Day |
|Moderately Active |x 1 |937 |
|Less Active |x 0.8 |749 |
|Pregnant (1st 5 Wks) |x 1 |937 |
|Pregnant (Last 4 Wks) |x 1.1 - 1.6 |1030 - 1499 |
|Lactating |x 2 - 4 |1873 - 3747 |
|puppy (0 -50% Adult Weight) |x 2 - 4 |1873 - 3747 |
|Puppy (50 - 80% Adult Weight) |x 1.6 |1499 |
|Puppy (80 - 100% Adult Weight) |x 1.2 |1124 |
|Extreme Weather |x 1.25 - 2 |1171 - 1873 |
|Working Dog (Light Duty) |x 1.1 |1030 |
|Working Dog (Medium Duty) |x 1.4 |1311 |
|Working Dog (Heavy Duty) |x 2 - 4 |1873 - 3747 |
|Table 3 |
Consider The Breed
Growth chart guidelines have been developed for all breeds, and it is critical that you get to know the needs of your dog. Consider, too, that activity-level, environment and age all contribute to the energy needs that you must meet.
If you have a mutt, growth rate may be difficult to determine, but there is a rule of thumb that will put you in the ballpark. You can estimate that a puppy's weight at eight weeks of age is approximately 20 - 25% that of his full-grown potential. Therefore, a 10-pound dog at two months is likely to weigh 40 - 50 pounds at maturity. However, the best clue is your dog's body condition and general health. A well-fed animal will be lean and energetic, bear a shiny coat and supple skin, and be free of digestive issues. If you achieve that, you are probably on the right course, nutritionally speaking.
Regular Food Vs. Diet Formulas
When cutting calories, the owner can opt to feed less of the food the dog is currently eating or switch to a special (read commercial) weight reduction diet. If currently feeding a commercial diet, switching to a weight production formula has its benefits.
Commercial weight reduction diets are typically high-fiber, low-fat offerings with a low caloric density. This allows for a greater loss of body fat than simply feeding smaller amounts of a high-fat diet. Fat contains over twice as many calories as proteins and carbohydrates. In addition, more energy is used in digesting and absorbing low-fat, high-fiber diets. If you opt to simply reduce the amount of the food currently being fed, you will be decreasing the total levels of protein, vitamins, minerals the dog is receiving, in addition to the fat content. Supplements can help make up for the lost nutrients.
The commercial offerings are hardly foolproof, however. Some weight-loss foods for dogs dilute calories with high levels of fiber. High-fiber foods may reduce the digestibility and absorption of many nutrients, including fat. Unfortunately, in these foods poor-quality nutrition is exchanged for weight reduction. High-fiber diets also result in large, frequent stools and decreased skin and coat condition. A normal fiber level helps create and maintain healthy digestion.
Also important to the dog on a weight loss regimen is a diet that provides essential fatty acids, like those found in vitamin-rich fish oils. These help maintain the dog’s healthy skin and coat. Prolonged feeding of a low-fat, high-fiber diet may prove detrimental to the dog's overall health.
Whatever type of food you choose to feed your dog, it is imperative that it be nutritionally complete and balanced, with the appropriate mix of vitamins and minerals. And, of course, the ideal diet should be all natural and wholesome, and free of additives, preservatives, by-products and fillers.
We are of the mindset that the best diet is a homemade diet.
Homemade dog food allows for flexibility and purity. It also gives us total control over our dog's nutritional needs. We can be assured that all ingredients are of the highest quality, and add up to a balanced, toxin-free diet. We can also maintain complete caloric discretion, modifying as necessary to accommodate our dog's ever-changing demands.
In addition, feeding a homemade diet allows us to give the dog a complete nutritional overhaul, and begin a feeding plan for life, as opposed to temporarily going on a "diet." Just as with humans, while a low-fat, high-fiber diet may result in weight loss, as soon as the goal is reached, and "normal" food is re-instituted, it is likely that at least some, if not all, of the lost weight will be regained.
Making the decision to feed your pet fresh food does not mean you need to overcomplicate matters. You do want to make sure that you provide him with all the nutritional building blocks he needs to maintain a healthy body. Animal protein should be combined with vegetables, pasta, rice, cereals and other foods to provide all the protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals needed. It's not an exact science, entirely, but it's not exactly rocket science either.
Keep The Weight Loss Gradual
A veterinarian should examine the dog prior to commencing a weight control program. As mentioned, some medical conditions can cause obesity in dogs, and any underlying cause should be ruled out or treated.
As always, your vet should be consulted on all matters regarding diet and supplementation. This should never be a random venture. Your vet can and should help you create the personalized plans for diet, supplementation and exercise that are most beneficial for your dog's situation.
In addition, when initiating a weight loss regimen, your vet
can help establish a realistic weight goal and timeline. Typically, a healthy weight loss goal is 1 - 2% of the body weight per week. Rapid weight loss can cause ill effects to the dog's metabolism, and also increases the likelihood of regaining the weight.
Steps To Aid The Weight Loss Venture
In addition to decreasing calories and increasing exercise, there are some small steps the owner can take to assist with the weight reduction plan. A commitment to weight loss should include:
❖ Feeding the animal several small meals throughout the day
❖ Feeding all meals in the pet's bowl only
❖ Monitoring progress with a written log of food intake, exercise & weekly weight
❖ Reducing or eliminating snacks or treats
❖ Regularly checking in with the veterinarian to make adjustments in the program, as needed
❖ Removing the pet from the room when the family eats
❖ Providing non-food-related attentions
Maintenance
The maintenance diet should be rich in healthy proteins, carbohydrates and fiber, essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals. To avoid weight gain following weight loss, the dog's weight should be continually monitored as the maintenance diet is instilled. In doing so, food intake should be gradually increased over time. If weight is regained consistently for 2 weeks, or more than 3% of weight is regained in one week, the weight reduction program should be reinstated.
Besides obesity, there are other visible indicators that a dog is not getting proper nutrition. Most obviously, an inadequate diet is reflected in the skin and coat. Other indicators include large, malodorous stools, chronic gas, dirty and brown teeth, bad breath, and a poor immune system -- which manifests itself in susceptibility to ear and skin infections, worms and fleas.
All of these conditions can and most likely will happen with any dog, but only occasionally. When they happen in unison, and frequently or continuously, it is time to examine the diet and make some changes. Along with adjusting the dietary intake as needed, regular exercise should remain in the equation for life.
New Diet Drug Approved
In January of 2007, The New York Times reported of the FDA's approval of the first prescription diet drug to treat obesity in dogs. Pfizer, the manufacturer of the drug called Slentrol, estimates that 4 million American dogs are obese, and potential candidates for the drug therapy. The cost of Slentrol is estimated at $1 - $2 per day.
According to the article, Pfizer’s vice president for companion animal health in the US, George J. Fennell notes that, “This is not a passport to abandon exercise or diets.” He feels, however, that it would be most helpful for dog owners who find it difficult to cut back on doggy treats. “You hear pet owners say, ‘The dog really wags his tail when I give him a treat. It’s hard to hold back.”
Slentrol is unlike any drug for human weight loss, although similar drugs have been researched for reducing fats in the blood of humans. Said drugs never reached marketability for people because of potential liver problems. Slentrol, in fact, will post a warning label against use by humans. Pfizer indicated it should not be used for other pets either.
Per Pfizer's clinical studies, 550 dogs were tested with Slentrol, and liver problems were not indicated. Vomiting is said to be the primary side effect.
Slentrol is a liquid that can be added to food, or fed directly to the dog. Treatment duration is dependent on the amount of weight to be lost. In the clinical studies, dogs using Slentrol lost 3% of their body weight per month, without changing their diets.
Thankfully, there is one voice of reason cited in the article. Dr. Hal Taylor III, a veterinarian in Columbus, Ohio, indicates that he would emphasize diet and exercise for his patients, reserving Slentrol for only the most obese and infirm, such as the case of a 13-year-old dog with severe arthritis. Dr. Taylor is quoted as saying, “We can’t stop people from eating Big Macs. We can dogs. To me, the problem [of obesity] is very fixable.”
Nutritional Information
Fats
Dietary fats, mainly derived from animal fats and the seed oils of various plants, provide the most concentrated source of energy in the diet. They supply essential fatty acids that cannot be synthesized in the body and serve as carriers for important fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamins A, D, E and K. Fatty acids play a role in cell structure and function. In addition, fats tend to enhance the palatability and texture of the dog’s food.
Essential fatty acids are required for your dog’s healthy skin and coat. Animals fed ultra low-fat diets for a prolonged period develop dry, coarse hair and skin lesions that become increasingly vulnerable to infections. In addition, deficiencies in omega-3 fatty acids have been linked to vision problems and impaired learning ability. Omega-3 fatty acids also have important physiologic effects in the body. Current recommendations for the optimum ratio of omega-6 fatty acids to omega-3 fatty acids are 5:1 to 1:1. Some pet food companies have added omega-3 fatty acids to their foods to lower the ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids. It is important to realize that although the ratios may be a guideline, the actual concentration of EPA in the omega-3's is what is most important.
Table 4 highlights some of the benefits and sources of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
|Sources & Benefits of Omega-3 & Omega-6 Fatty Acids |
|Essential Fatty Acid |Sources |Perceived Benefits |
|Omega-3 |Anchovy, Atlantic Mackerel, Cod Liver Oil, |Arthritis, Asthma, Atopy, Behavioral |
| |Eggs, Flaxseeds & Flaxseed oil, Hemp seed, |Problems, Cancer, Digestive Disease, |
| |Menhaden Fish, Pacific or Atlantic Herring,|Eosinophilic Granuloma Complex, Flea |
| |Pumpkin Seed Oil, Salmon, Salvia Hispanica,|Allergies, Heart Disease, Immune-mediated |
| |Sardines (in water), Soybean Oil, Sprat, |Skin Diseases, Kidney Disease, Learning |
| |Sturgeon, Trout, Tuna, Walnuts & Walnut oil|Difficulties, Military Dermatitis, |
| | |Seborrhea |
|Omega-6 |Black Currant Oil, Borage Oil, Canola Oil, |Cancer, Dry Coat, Mycoplasma, Seborrhea |
| |Corn Oil, Egg Yolks, Evening Primrose Oil, | |
| |Flaxseeds & Flaxseed Oil, Olive Oil, Peanut| |
| |Oil | |
|Table 4 |
It is typically advocated that the fat content of weight reduction foods for dogs should comprise 5-12% of the diet. Fat deficiencies result in a dull coat, delayed healing of wounds, lack of energy, heart problems, growth deficits and dry skin. Excess fats can result in obesity and liver disease.
Proteins
Proteins are made up of amino acids, which are known as the building blocks that form thousands of different proteins, each with a specific function Every different amino acid configuration corresponds to a different protein, including enzymes, hormones, genes, red blood cells, hair, skin, bone and muscle.
Dogs can manufacture some amino acids in their bodies, others must be supplied in their food. Dietary protein contains ten essential amino acids that dogs cannot produce on their own. Proteins from animal sources are preferable for dogs because they are easier to extract and digest than proteins from plant sources. The type of protein contained in the food is essential to know. Foods containing cereal proteins (wheat, corn, barley) have little nutritional value for dogs. Muscle meats, eggs and organ meats (such as liver) provide much more usable protein.
Proteins form the enzymes that metabolize food into energy and the hormones that guide various body functions. Proteins themselves can also be metabolized for provide energy. They build bones, repair tissue and maintain growth.
Protein deficiencies result in slow growth and weak or deformed bones. Also linked to animal protein deficiencies are chronic skin and ear infections, epilepsy and cancer, spinning or tail chasing, aggression, timidity, lack of pigmentation, excessive shedding, crooked whiskers, gastrointestinal upsets, poor appetite, a weakened immune system, and an impaired ability to heal from wounds. Excess protein can cause obesity and brittle bones.
Dietary sources for proteins are complete dog foods, meat, fish, milk and eggs. Protein should comprise about 10% of your dog's diet.
Table 5 represents the Recommended Daily Allowances for proteins and fats, per The National Research Council of the National Academies. Note the dynamic needs, per varying life stages of the dog.
|Recommended Daily Allowances for Proteins & Fats in Canines |
| |Puppies (Weighing 12 lb., 33 |Adult Dogs (Weighing 33 |Pregnant Dogs (Weighing 33 |Nursing Dogs (Weighing 33 |
| |lb. at maturity) |lb.) |lb. w/6 puppies) |lb. with 6 puppies) |
|Crude Protein |56 g |25 g |69 g |158 g |
|Total Fat |21 g |14 g |29 g |67 g |
|Table 5 |
Unfortunately, pet food labels do not generally list essential ingredient amounts in grams, so the application of this necessitates a little configuring. Per pet food regulations established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), pet food labels must state guarantees for the minimum percentages of crude protein and fat, along with the maximum percentages of crude fiber and moisture. To convert these percentages to grams, multiply the crude percentages by the weight of your dog's daily portion.
As an example, if your dog's food guarantees 10% crude protein and he consumes a 1/2-pound portion daily, you must first do the metric conversion for that 1/2-pound portion, which would be approximately 227 grams. The grams of protein conversion would then be .10 x 227 = 23 grams (rounded).
In addition to calculating these dietary components, you must also consider energy needs in terms of calories. It is important that your dog's diet balances the appropriate amounts of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals and water and simultaneously provides for the suitable number of calories for his size, life stage and activity level.
Carbohydrates & Fiber
Carbohydrates comprise a large group of compounds and include all sugars and starches. They provide energy and are a source of bulk in the diet. Carbs should make up no more than 50% of a dog's balanced diet, including 2 - 5% from fiber. Too much fiber in the diet can decrease the digestibility of other important nutrients and result in loose stools, frequent defecation and reduced palatability of the dog food.
Carb deficiencies can result in possible fertility and whelping problems. Excessive carbohydrates cause obesity.
Dietary sources for carbs include cereals, rice, pasta and potatoes. Oats, barley and brown rice are whole grains that contain a lot of vitamins and nutrients. They also contain protein and fat. Corn is a popular choice. Soy is another popular choice, but some experts warn that soy binds up other nutrients and makes them unavailable for absorption. Hence, dog foods containing soy are best avoided.
Minerals
Some minerals are found in all foods, but no single food contains everything needed in the proper balance for good nutrition. Mineral needs for dogs include calcium, potassium, phosphorous, sodium, magnesium, sulfur and in trace elements, iron, copper, zinc, manganese, iodine, cobalt, and selenium. These make up less than 2% of any formulated diet, and yet they are the most critical of nutrients.
A dog can manufacture some vitamins on its own, but he cannot make minerals. Functions in the body include:
❖ Aiding in protein synthesis
❖ Amino acid synthesis
❖ Building bones and teeth
❖ Building hemoglobin
❖ Clotting and muscle function
❖ Fat metabolism
❖ Nerve function
❖ Thyroid function
❖ Tissue repair, immune system
❖ Vitamin B12 production
❖ Vitamin E synthesis
❖ Water balance
Deficiencies in the different minerals have different results. A dearth of calcium, for example, results in poor growth, rickets and convulsions. Anemia results from deficiencies in iron or copper. A shortage of magnesium causes convulsions, muscle weakness, and anorexia. Poor growth and skin and infertility follow a lack of zinc and manganese. Shortages of iodine cause goiter, hair loss and lethargy. We see muscle problems as a consequence of selenium deficiency, a lack of sulfur results in poor growth and coat. Kidney and heart problems are the effect of missing potassium, and sodium shortages cause hair loss and poor growth. Sodium shortages rarely occur. Excess sodium has been linked to hypertension in dogs.
Not only do dogs (and all organisms) need these nutrients, but they need them in proper amounts and balance for optimum health. For example, unless calcium and phosphorous are in balance, neither will be properly absorbed or utilized. Iron is critical for healthy red blood cells and is an essential component of some enzymes. Iron from animal sources is more readily absorbed than that from vegetable sources.
Dietary sources of these minerals include: milk, cheese, bones, bread, meat, vegetables, fish, greens, cereals, nuts, eggs and salt.
Table 6 represents the Recommended Daily Allowances for minerals for dogs, including the indicators of deficiency or excess of each, per The National Research Council of the National Academies.
|Recommended Daily Allowances for Minerals In Dogs |
|Mineral |daily Rda* |Signs of Deficiency/Excess |Dietary Sources |
| | |Hyperparathyroidism; decreases in bone mineral content & |Yogurt, Milk, Ricotta Cheese, |
|Calcium |.75 g |skeletal abnormalities/Skeletal aberrations, especially in|Sardines, Salmon, Perch, Spinach, |
| | |growing puppies of large breeds |Green Peas |
|Chlorine |150 mg |Reduced weight gain & weakness in puppies |Table Salt |
| | |Loss of hair pigmentation in puppies; anemia |Seafood, Organ Meats, Legumes, |
| | | |Mushrooms, Tomatoes, Potatoes, |
|Copper |1.5 mg | |Sweet Potatoes, Bananas, Black |
| | | |Pepper, Blackstrap Molasses |
|Iodine |220 μg |Enlargement of thyroid glands, dry sparse hair coat; |Seafood, Seaweed, Eggs, Meat, Dairy|
| | |weight gain/Excessive tearing, salivation & nasal |Products |
| | |discharge; dandruff | |
| | |Poor growth; pale mucous membranes; lethargy; weakness; |Liver, Beef, Chicken Liver, Kidney |
|Iron |7.5 mg |diarrhea/At acute levels, dangerous oxidative reactions |Beans, Spinach, Blackstrap Molasses|
| | |that lead to gastrointestinal & other tissue damage | |
| | |Reduction in weight gain, irritability & convulsions in |Halibut, Almonds, Cashews, Nuts, |
|Magnesium |150 mg |puppies; hyperextension of carpal joints and hind-leg |Spinach, Oatmeal, Potatoes, Yogurt,|
| | |paralysis later in life |Brown Rice, Banana |
|Manganese |1.2 mg |No studies of deficiencies in dogs |Whole Grains, Nuts, Leafy |
| | | |Vegetables, Chick Peas |
| | |Reduced weight gain; poor appetite; bowing & swelling of |Protein-rich foods, such as Meat, |
| | |forelimbs in puppies |Poultry, Fish, Eggs, Dairy |
|Phosphorous |.75 g | |Products, Nuts, Legumes; Whole |
| | | |Grains, Hard Potatoes, Dried Fruit,|
| | | |Garlic Cloves |
| | |Poor growth in puppies; paralysis of neck muscles & rear |Unprocessed foods, including Meat, |
| | |legs & general weakness later in life |Fish, Potatoes, Avocados, Dried |
|Potassium |1 g | |Apricots, Bananas, Citrus Juice, |
| | | |Dairy Products, Whole Grains |
| | |Anorexia; depression; breathing discomfort; coma; muscular|Nuts, Orange Roughy, Tuna, |
| | |degeneration |Swordfish, Ocean Perch, Sardines, |
| | | |Herring, Cod, Halibut, Salmon, |
|Selenium |90 μg | |Shrimp, Tuna, Chicken, Whole Grain |
| | | |Wheat Flour, Cereals, Organ & |
| | | |Muscle Meats |
|Sodium |100 mg |Restlessness; increased heart rate, water intake, & |Table Salt |
| | |hemoglobin concentration; dry & tacky mucous membranes | |
|Zinc |15 mg |Poor weight gain; vomiting; skin lesions |Meat, Liver, Seafood |
|*Based on the needs of an adult dog weighing 33 lbs, consuming 1,000 calories/day |Table 6 |
|g = grams, mg = milligrams, μg = micrograms | |
Vitamins
Like minerals, some vitamins are found in all foods, but no one food can provide all the essential vitamins. There are two types of vitamins, water soluble and fat soluble. The former are the B complex vitamins, including thiamin, riboflavin, pantothenic acid, niacin, pryridoxine, biotin, folic acid, choline and B1, B2, B6 and B12, and C, ascorbic acid. B-vitamins help convert food to energy. Vitamin C is manufactured by the dog. Any excess of water soluble vitamins is filtered through the kidneys and urinated out between four and eight hours after ingestion. As such, they must be present at each meal.
Fat soluble vitamins A, D, E and K are stored in the fatty tissue of the body and liver and are used on an as needed basis. Fat-soluble vitamins can build up in tissues and become toxic. Excess vitamins can lead to bone disease and anorexia. Excess Vitamin D causes diarrhea and calcification of soft tissue, lungs and kidneys.
Functions of vitamins in the body are:
❖ Amino acid metabolism
❖ Aiding cell membrane function & reproduction
❖ Blood clotting
❖ Bone growth
❖ Energy metabolism
❖ Fat metabolism
❖ Increasing calcium absorption
❖ Nerve function
❖ Protecting skin
❖ Vision
Vitamin A deficiency can cause eye problems. Vitamin D deficiency causes rickets. Vitamin E deficiencies can cause muscle tissue breakdown, reproductive failure, and impairment of immune response.
Food sources for vitamins include milk, cod liver oil, peas and other vegetables, beans, whole grains, organ meat, cheese, cereals, legumes and eggs.
Dog foods contain vitamin and mineral supplements in balanced concentrations. Too much or too little of one mineral may interfere with absorption of another or with vitamin use. Major dog food companies do make every effort to provide balanced proportions of vitamins and minerals for maximum nutritional benefit. However, slight differences in processing temperatures, ingredient quality and storage processes can cause variations in quality that may affect a particular dog, breed or line of dogs within a breed. In addition, some breeds or groups may have slightly different requirements. Hence, all dog foods are not perfect for all dogs, a factor contributing to the production of a myriad of different foods, claims and processing methods.
Table 7 represents the Recommended Daily Allowances for vitamins for dogs, including the indicators of deficiency or excess of each, per The National Research Council of the National Academies.
|Recommended Daily Allowances for Minerals In Dogs |
|Vitamin |daily Rda* |Signs of Deficiency/Excess |Dietary Sources |
| | |Loss of body weight; fatty liver |Lecithin (Soybeans), Egg Yolks, |
|Choline |425 mg | |Brewer's Yeast, Wheat Germ, Fish, |
| | | |Peanuts, Liver, Cauliflower |
|Folic Acid |68 μg |Weight loss; decline in hemoglobin concentration |Lentils, Spinach, Black Beans, |
| | | |Asparagus, Grains, Chicken & Beef |
| | | |Liver, Peanuts, Sunflower Seeds, |
| | | |OJ |
| | |Anorexia; weight loss; inflammation of the lips, cheeks & |Beef liver, Peanuts, Chicken, |
|Niacin |4 mg |throat; profuse salivation; bloody diarrhea/Bloody feces; |Tuna, Salmon, Ground Beef, Peanut |
| | |convulsions |Butter |
|Pantothenic Acid |4 mg |Erratic food intake; sudden prostration or coma; rapid |Organ Meats, Lobster, Poultry, |
| | |respiratory & heart rates; convulsions; gastrointestinal |Soybeans, Lentils, Split Peas, |
| | |symptoms; reduced antibody production |Yogurt, Eggnog, Avocado, Mushroom,|
| | | |Sweet Potato |
| | | Anorexia; body weight loss; ataxia; conjunctivitis; |Broccoli, Carrots, Green Beans, |
| | |corneal disorders; skin lesions; respiratory ailments; |Green Leafy Vegetables, Peas, |
|Vitamin A |379 μg |increased susceptibility to infection/Imbalance in bone |Sweet Potatoes, Yams, Eggs, Milk, |
| | |remodeling processes; artery & vein degeneration; |Beef Liver |
| | |dehydration; central nervous system depression; joint pain | |
|Vitamin B1 (Thiamin) |0.56 mg |Failure to grow, weight loss & neurological abnormalities |Poultry, Whole Grain Cereals, |
| | |in puppies; damage to the nervous system & to the heart in |Nuts, Legumes, Brewer's Yeast |
| | |dogs | |
|Vitamin B2 |1.3 mg |Anorexia; weight loss; muscular weakness; flaking | Liver, Venison, Beef, Yogurt, |
|(Riboflavin) | |dermatitis; eye lesions |Soybeans, Spinach, Tempeh, |
| | |Anorexia & weight loss in puppies; convulsions, muscle |Potatoes, Bananas, Garbanzo Beans,|
|Vitamin B6 |0.4 mg |twitching & anemia in adults/Impairment of motor control & |Oatmeal, Beef, Trout, Sunflower |
| | |balance; muscle weakness |Seeds |
|Vitamin B12 |9 μg |Appetite loss; lack of white blood cells; anemia; bone |Meat, Dairy Products, Eggs |
| | |marrow changes | |
| | |Rickets; lethargy; loss of muscle tone; bone swelling & |Cod Liver Oil, Salmon, Mackerel, |
|Vitamin D |3.4 μg |bending/Anorexia; weakness, diarrhea; vomiting; |Tuna, Sardines, Milk, Egg Yolks, |
| | |calcification of soft tissue; excessive mineralization of |Beef Liver, Yeast, Fortified Milk |
| | |long bones; dehydration; dry & brittle hair; muscle atrophy| |
|Vitamin E |8 mg |Degeneration of skeletal muscle; reproductive failure; | Cold-pressed vegetable oils, such|
| | |retinal degeneration |as Sunflower, Safflower & Olive, |
| | | |Nuts, Sunflower Seeds, Soybeans |
| | |No reports of naturally occurring deficiencies in normal |Kale, Spinach, Collard Greens, |
|Vitamin K |0.41 mg |dogs |Swiss Chard, Turnip Greens, |
| | | |Mustard Greens, Brussel Sprouts, |
| | | |Broccoli, Parsley, Romaine Lettuce|
|*Based on the needs of an adult dog weighing 33 lbs, consuming 1,000 calories/day |Table 7 |
|g = grams, mg = milligrams, μg = micrograms | |
Water
A bowl of fresh water should always be available to your dog, and more provided during exercise. A dog loses water daily in urine and feces, through panting, and to a limited extent, through sweating from the pads on its paws. Dogs can suffer irreversible body dehydration and damage if water is unavailable for over 48 hours. Although canned dog food can be as much as three-quarter liquid, this is not enough to sustain a dog.
Exercise
Dogs of every age and size enjoy playing with you, with other dogs, and with toys. Denying a dog the release of mental and physical activity could ultimately result in destructive and unacceptable behavior, such as aggressiveness, chewing objects, excessive barking or howling, or befouling the house.
The actual amount of exercise needed varies according to breed, age and state of health, but all dogs should have time set aside daily to be able to play and run in a safe, appropriate place. By training a dog to retrieve objects, you can concentrate this necessary exercise into a shorter period of time. Playing games with your dog reinforces your authority, as the dog depends on you to throw the toy. In your absence, toys can stimulate your dog's mind and senses.
All active breeds thrive on daily activity. Once your dog is trained to obey your commands, and where safe and appropriate, your dog should be regularly allowed off the leash to enjoy vigorous exercise. Frequent walks on the leash are needed as well.
A daily exercise program will not only maintain your dog's athleticism, it will also help prevent age-related health issues, including heart disease, gastrointestinal disease, respiratory problems and arthritis. Workouts should be tailored to the needs and preferences of your dog.
There are many benefits of regular exercise, not the least of which include:
❖ Decreases incidence of behavioral problems, such as digging, barking and chewing
❖ Decreases incidence of restlessness or boredom
❖ Enhances mood & well-being
❖ Increases stamina, alertness and energy
❖ Maintains a healthy weight
❖ Strengthens dog's muscles and bones and keeps joints limber
❖ Strengthens heart & lungs
Your vet can help you ascertain how much exercise your dog needs and desires. The amount and type of exercise needed is dependent upon several factors, including:
❖ Age
❖ Breed
❖ General Health
The cardinal rule is to remain consistent -- create a routine and stick to it. Dog's who exercise judiciously are happier, healthier and better behaved.
An exercise program for the dog should include aerobic activity and strength training. The dog should always be monitored for over-activity, injury or pain, and not exercised too strenuously. Moderation and control should be exercised diligently in the diligent exercise program.
Aerobic Exercise
Aerobic exercise is any activity that raises the heart rate and keeps it elevated for 15 - 20 consecutive minutes. It increases blood flow throughout the body. It relieves pain and stiffness, and is important for maintaining cardiovascular health as well.
Aerobic exercise is easily accomplished for a dog by playing Frisbee or fetch, or simply engaging in a brisk walk or jog.
Strength Training
Building muscles, ligaments and tendons provides joints with strong support, and takes the pressure off of damaged, aching joints. Walking, fetching, jogging, running and swimming are all examples of exercises that build strength. The dog should be monitored carefully for signs of tiring, reluctance or lameness, all of which are indicators that the exercise is too strenuous.
The Home Cooked Option
Individual metabolism, exercise, age, environment and overall health will determine what your dog really needs to remain lean and healthy. Since your dog can only have so many calories every day, it is important to pack lots of nutrition, bulk and appeal into those calories.
Your dog's strong bones, muscle tone, shiny coat and overall well-being are evidence of his nutritious, well-balanced diet. While you may have thought the decision of what to feed your pet to be a no-brainer, ultimately it is important to realize that it goes beyond choosing between canned or dry, premium or economy blends.
Many pet foods are labeled as "premium," "super-premium" and even, "ultra-premium" or "gourmet." Products labeled as such are not required to contain any different or higher quality ingredients, nor are they held up to any higher nutritional standards than are any other complete and balanced products.
Further, food labels often boast the term "natural." In terms of labeling-regulations, however, the term "natural" does not have an official definition. It can be construed as equivalent to a lack of artificial flavors, artificial colors, or artificial preservatives in the product. "Natural" is not the same as "organic." The latter term refers to, "the conditions under which the plants were grown or animals were raised." There are no official rules governing the labeling of organic foods, for humans or pets, at this time. However, the USDA is developing regulations dictating what types of pesticides, fertilizers and other substances can be used in organic farming.
Still, it does give one pause to think. The dog food manufacturers seem to be putting plenty of time and money into convincing us their products are natural and nutritionally complete with marketing gimmicks and eye-catching claims. That would indicate,
1) That is what consumers would like the product to be, and
2) That is what the product should be.
Doesn't it make sense, then, that we select food for our dog that we know to be healthful and nutritionally sound?
The BARF Diet
Proponents of the BARF diet (biologically appropriate raw food) swear by its nutritional superiority, believing this to be as close to the dog feeding in the wild as is possible. There is supporting evidence that cooking some food deprives it of many important nutrients.
The diet is deemed rich in vitamins, minerals, living enzymes, natural protein sources and premium quality fruits and vegetables. Grains are typically regarded as unnecessary and avoided. Holistic veterinarians, who contend that it is the most healthy, safe and nutritious dietary option, commonly embrace the BARF diet. The BARF Diet is said to mimic the way pets used to eat before highly processed, grain-based foods entered our food chain. There is also some supporting evidence for claims that dogs can achieve a higher level of health on the raw diet -- as exhibited by glossier coats and stronger teeth and skeletal structure.
But there is controversy as to whether a raw diet really is a safe diet. While the dog's digestive tract is able to process raw meat, that fact does not mean he is immune to salmonella and E. coli, although some vets believe otherwise. Still others maintain that as long as the food is frozen before serving, the risk of contracting salmonella or E. coli is eliminated.
In addition, the raw diet advocates the feeding of bones. Most traditional veterinarians emphasize avoidance of raw bones to chew as they can splinter and become lodged in the dog's throat, or splinter and cause gastrointestinal issues.
In general, traditional veterinarians do not advocate a raw diet. The choice is yours. Some dogs do not tolerate raw food, and some owners are uncomfortable serving it. That being said, its proponents declare this is the way to go when attempting to achieve weight loss in the obese dog.
Supplements
Some veterinarians recommend supplementing the diet with vitamins and minerals. Others subscribe to the notion that a complete and balanced diet will provide sufficient nutrients, rendering supplementation unnecessary. Regardless of which may be true for your vet and your pet, vitamins and minerals should only be dispensed under the strict supervision of your veterinarian. If overdone, supplementation can be detrimental to your dog.
If your pet seems to be having any problems with a supplement, your vet should be consulted immediately. Symptoms of problems assimilating the diet can include:
❖ A discharge from her vulva
❖ Diarrhea
❖ Loss of interest in her food
❖ A listless, lethargic attitude
Potential Dietary Aids
Various medications and nutraceuticals are being evaluated for use in conjunction with the more traditional weight reduction program. These include:
❖ Chitin/Chitosan
❖ Chromium Picolinate
❖ CoEnzyme Q10 (CoQ)
❖ Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)
❖ Garcinia Cambogia
❖ L-Carnitine
❖ Pyruvate
Chitin/Chitosan
Chitin is a dietary supplement made from a starch found in the skeleton of shrimp, crab, and other shellfish. It is sometimes referred to as chitosol or chitosan.
This compound is not digested and passes through the intestines unabsorbed, thereby adding no calories. The chemical makeup makes it bind with fat thus preventing the fat from being absorbed, as well. As such, it is believed to inhibit fat absorption and storage. Studies are currently underway to evaluate its use as a supplement to dietary alterations.
Side effects of chitin include cramping and constipation, which are usually attributed to inadequate water intake or excessive amounts of chitin for the amount of fat ingested in a meal. Chitin is a fiber, and plenty of water is required to prevent constipation.
Chitin should not be used in dogs that are:
❖ Allergic to seafood or shellfish
❖ Have small intestinal inflammation, bowel disease or osteoporosis
❖ Pregnant or lactating
❖ Taking blood thinners such as coumadin or heparin
❖ Taking medications that regulate glucose levels or control blood pressure
❖ Taking multiple medications throughout the day
Chromium Picolinate
Chromium Picolinate is a nutritional supplement used to prevent or treat chromium deficiency. It has been demonstrated to promote the activity of insulin. Its effect on weight loss in obese animals is being studied, but the results so far are inconclusive.
CoEnzyme Q10
CoEnzyme Q10 (CoQ) is available in some commercial dog foods, and in supplement form. It is an antioxidant that works synergistically with vitamin E. It is present and plays a critical role in the production of energy in nearly every cell of the body, and has been shown to improve many conditions associated with normal aging. Anti-aging effects include increased energy and exercise tolerance and stimulation of immune function.
Studies of its effects on obese animals are currently underway. In general, it has been shown to be safe, with no adverse effects demonstrated in animal studies.
It is significant that the body's levels of CoQ decrease with age, by as much as 80%. CoQ is synthesized by the body, but production wanes in the dog's adult years. As such, supplementation is reasonable for the adult dog.
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)
DHEA is a natural steroid pro-hormone produced from cholesterol by the adrenal glands, the gonads, adipose tissue, brain and in the skin. DHEA is the precursor of androstenedione, testosterone and estrogen. It is the most abundant hormone in the human body.
Studies on rodents indicate that dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) creates anti-obesity activity. Further, a recent study at the University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine demonstrated that dogs administered DHEA while on a weight reduction program lost weight faster and had lower cholesterol levels than those dogs who were on a weight reduction program alone.
Garcinia Cambogia
Garcinia Cambogia is a pumpkin-shaped, yellowish fruit native to Indonesia. The principal active compound in the rind and flesh is hydroxycitric acid (HCA), which has been found to reduce fatty acids and cholesterol. Studies are currently underway for the use of this herbal compound as an anti-obesity agent.
L-Carnitine
L-carnitine, is a vitamin-like compound made in the body from the amino acids lysine and methionine. It is found in animal-based sources of protein. Recent studies indicate that it helps reduce weight in overweight dogs and cats.
In a study conducted by The Iams Company, overweight dogs were fed similar diets. One group was given a diet supplemented with L-carnitine while the control group did not receive the supplement. After seven weeks, the group that received the diet without supplemental L-carnitine lost 1.8% body weight and 2.4% body fat, compared to 6.4% body weight and 4.6% body fat loss from the group that was fed the L-carnitine supplemented diet.
Pyruvate
Pyruvate is a chemical compound derived from the output of glucose known as glycolysis. Pyruvic acid is a key intersection in the network of metabolic pathways. It can be converted to carbohydrates, fatty acids or amino acids. Studies in rats and humans indicate favorable results in altering metabolism. Studies are currently underway regarding their effects on obesity in dogs.
Additives To Avoid
The major additive to avoid for the obese dog is sugar. Aside from supplying unnecessary, empty calories that will eradicate all the attempts to lose weight, the body's process of converting sugar to energy uses up the B vitamins and magnesium that are needed for overall health. In addition, the excessive use of sugar in long-term diets leads to diabetes, which is a devastating problem in itself.
If you are using commercial dog food, you need to be aware of the "hidden" sugar additives. Sugars can constitute as much as 25% of a semi-moist dog food, and a large percentage of dog biscuits as well. Be sure to avoid these ingredients in dog foods, especially noxious if listed near the top:
❖ Corn sweetener
❖ Corn syrup
❖ Dextrose
❖ Fructose
❖ Malt Syrup
❖ Molasses
❖ Sucrose
Veterinary Care
Your dog should have regular visits with a veterinarian to ascertain overall wellness. Further, you should never diagnose and treat a dog for any ailments yourself. This is inclusive of obesity. Doing so will only introduce more variables into the equation, which makes diagnosis that much more complex. You will force your doctor to do an end around to reach the same conclusion he or she may have made initially, and potentially much more quickly. Instead, provide your doctor with the facts, and only the facts, regarding your dog's history, behavior, diet, and any indications that the status quo has been upended.
Your doctor can take it from there. In addition, as mentioned, your vet should be consulted on all matters regarding diet, exercise and supplementation. These should never be approached haphazardly. Your vet can help you create the individualized program for diet, supplementation and exercise that are most beneficial for your dog.
Calorie Calculations According to Dog Size
|Size of Dog |Weight of Dog |Daily Calorie Requirement |
|Toy |6 lbs |2.7 kg |250 calories |
|Small |22 lbs |9.9 kg |750 calories |
|Medium |48 lbs |21.7 kg |1360 calories |
|Large |75 lbs |34 kg |1830 calories |
|Extra Large |90 lbs ++ |40.8 kg++ |2150 calories ++ |
Equation for calculating Percentage of Daily Calorie Requirement:
[pic]
*The calorie chart is for your dog’s ideal weight. If your dog is overweight, please calculate with his target weight in mind.
**Note: If Percentage of Daily Calorie Requirement is greater than 100%, then it is more than one day’s worth of food.
Additionally, this is the formula used to calculate calorie values at the bottom of each recipe. You may adjust or make calculations for yourself if needed, as these are meant to serve as guidelines and each pet is different.
Chapter 4 Weight Loss Recipes
The following pages are ripe with homemade recipes for your dog's health and pleasure. The recipes included here were devised specifically for dogs on a weight loss regimen, including some offerings advocated by proponents of the controversial BARF diet, should you opt to go that route.
Each recipe includes a calorie count for your ease of use and comfort. Please consider these counts as approximates when deciding which recipes to select for your dog, and to assist with portion sizes. For an exact tally, it is important that you read labels and tabulate the calories yourself as you make the meals.
This is because many of the ingredients are somewhat generic and we might not be using the same items in our preparation. For example, when a recipe calls for one cup of turkey, you might use lean, fresh ground (300 calories), whereas we may have fresh ground turkey breast (240 calories) or perhaps one cup diced, roasted turkey with meat and skin included (291 calories). Further, when "liver" is listed, you might select beef liver, where we may have preferred chicken liver.
In our counts, our intent was to stay right within the average range for these, but keep in mind, a series of these "minor" discrepancies in a given recipe can add up to a big difference in your dog's waistline in the end!
Just as there are ingredients to avoid in commercial dog food, there are some foods in the homemade arena that are considered unsafe, unhealthy, or otherwise unwholesome for dogs. Be sure and refrain from using these in your recipes:
|Keeping Homemade Food Healthful |
| |Foods To Avoid |Healthful Alternatives |
|Meats & Fish |Fatty Meats, Cured Meats (e.g., Sausage, |Cooked Lean Cuts of Boneless Chicken or |
| |Bacon, Hot Dogs), Fried Chicken, Raw Pork |Turkey, Beef, Lamb, Whitefish, Salmon & |
| | |Herring |
|Fat Sources |For Dogs, it is said there is no such thing|Fats High in Omega-3 Fatty Acids, such as |
| |as a 'Bad' Fat except Too Much Fat |Fish & Eggs, Flaxseed Oil, Salmon Oil |
|Vegetables |Batter-Dipped, Deep Fried Vegetables, |Alfalfa sprouts, Bok Choy, Broccoli, |
| |French Fries, Onions |Cabbage, Carrots, Celery, Chinese Cabbage, |
| | |Collards, Garlic, Green beans, Green leafy |
| | |vegetables, Peas, Sweet potatoes, Spinach |
| | |Summer Squash, Turnip Greens, Yams |
|Grains |White Bread, Pastries, Cookies, Cakes & Any|Cooked Rice, Barley, Bulgar, Polenta, |
| |Sugary Baked Goods |Oatmeal & Pasta |
|Breakfast Foods |Pancakes, Waffles & Processed Foods |Raw (except for Newborn Pups), Scrambled, |
| | |Fried (In Canola Oil), Hard Boiled or |
| | |Poached Eggs |
|Dairy |Whole Milk, Cream, Ice Cream |Plain Yogurt, Ricotta Cheese, Cottage |
| | |Cheese, Grated Hard Cheese |
|Fruits |Grapes & Raisins |Blueberries, Blackberries, Raspberries, |
| | |Strawberries, Melons, Apples, Pears, |
| | |Bananas & Cherries |
|Prepared People Foods |Junk Food, Frozen Dinners, Fast Food, |Stew or Soup with Meat & Vegetables, |
| |Chocolate & Any Sweets, Onion Soup |Meatloaf, Egg Salad, Tuna Salad |
| | |Table 8 |
We wish for you and your dog a long and healthful life together, and we hope that you both enjoy the selections we have gathered here!
Cheeseburger Blend
(For Weight Loss)
Recommended for weight loss in dogs because of the balance of healthy proteins, grains and vegetables. Cod liver oil is one of the most effective providers of Omega-3 fatty acids, is an excellent source of vitamins A & D, and also contains DHA, for healthy brain and eye development. Brown rice is a healthy, easily digestible carbohydrate source and a whole grain, rich in vitamins and nutrients. Cabbage is said to boost immune function. Spinach and green beans are excellent sources of beta-carotene.
|Recipe |Cheeseburger Blend |
|Amount |Measure |Ingredients |Calories |
|1 |lb |ground beef patties |1168 |
|1 |tbsp |cod liver oil |123 |
|½ |cup |shredded cheddar cheese |98 |
|2 |cup |cooked brown rice |436 |
|½ |cup |cooked baby cabbage, finely chopped |10 |
|½ |cup |cooked spinach, chopped |3 |
|½ |cup |cooked green beans, chopped |19 |
|Total |1857 |
|Method |In broiler, cook the burger patties until done, turning once. Set aside to cool, then cut into bite-sized pieces. |
| |In a large bowl, combine all ingredients, and mix thoroughly. |
| |Divide into appropriate portion sizes and serve cooled. |
| |Supplements can be added at serving time. |
|Percentage of Daily Calorie |Toy Dog |Small Dog |Medium Dog |Large Dog |Extra-Large Dog |
|Requirement Met | | | | | |
| |742% |247% |136% |101% |86% |
Crockpot Chicken Chow
(For Weight Loss)
Recommended for weight loss in dogs because of the balance of healthy proteins, grains and vegetables. Brown rice is a healthy, easily digestible carbohydrate source, and a whole grain, rich in vitamins and nutrients. Vegetables are a natural source of vitamins and minerals. Carrots are a good source of beta-carotene and cabbage is believed to boost immune function. The use of garlic cloves is optional -- some experts are advocates of garlic as beneficial to canine. Others believe dogs should never be given garlic. Flaxseed oil is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids.
|Recipe |Crockpot Chicken Chow |
|Amount |Measure |Ingredients |Calories |
|1 |lb |Chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces |672 |
|2 |cup |Brown rice |436 |
|1 |cup |Celery, sliced |17 |
|1 |cup |Carrots, sliced |50 |
|1 |cup |Cabbage, chopped |21 |
|1 |can |Sliced water chestnuts |50 |
|3 |cup |Chicken broth |114 |
|1 |tbsp |Flaxseed oil |130 |
|1 |clove |Garlic, pressed (optional) |4 |
|Total |1494 |
|Method |Place all ingredients in crockpot and cook on low for at least 6 hours. |
| |Divide into appropriate size portions and serve cooled. Extra portions can be refrigerated or frozen for later use. |
| |Supplements can be added at serving time. |
|Percentage of Daily Calorie |Toy Dog |Small Dog |Medium Dog |Large Dog |Extra-Large Dog |
|Requirement Met | | | | | |
| |597% |199% |109% |81% |69% |
Fish & Egg Scramble
(For Weight Loss)
Recommended for weight loss in dogs because of the balance of healthy proteins, grains and vegetables. Potatoes are a healthy, easily digestible carbohydrate source. Mackerel, salmon & eggs are healthy protein sources, and effective providers of omega-3 fatty acids and other vital nutrients. Tomatoes are a source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant.
|Recipe |Fish & Egg Scramble |
|Amount |Measure |Ingredients |Calories |
|2 |tsp |Butter, unsalted |72 |
|2 |cups |White potatoes, peeled and shredded |200 |
|½ |cup |Broccoli, chopped |15 |
|15 |oz |Can mackerel or salmon |563 |
|½ |cup |Can tomatoes, chopped |15 |
|½ |cup |Kale, chopped |18 |
|2 |pcs |Eggs, whisked |148 |
|2 |oz |Cottage cheese |58 |
| |1089 |
|Method |Heat butter in a large frying pan over medium high heat. Add potatoes & broccoli. Sauté until vegetables are soft. |
| |Add canned fish and tomatoes. Cook until heated through. |
| |Add kale and cook until wilted, about 1 minute. |
| |Add eggs, and cook thoroughly, stirring often. |
| |Once eggs cooked through, remove from pan and allow to cool. |
| |Add cottage cheese and serve. |
|Percentage of Daily Calorie |Toy Dog |Small Dog |Medium Dog |Large Dog |Extra-Large Dog |
|Requirement Met | | | | | |
| |435% |145% |80% |59% |50% |
Frozen Beef Packs
(Raw Food For Weight Loss)
Recommended for weight loss in dogs because of the healthy balance of proteins, grains and vegetables. Proponents believe raw is nutritionally superior, and meat that is frozen before serving does not pose risk for salmonella or E.coli. If uncomfortable with serving raw, meat can be cooked. Brown rice is a healthy, easily digestible carbohydrate source, and a whole grain, rich in vitamins and nutrients. Tomatoes are a source of lycopene, a potent antioxidant. Cabbage and broccoli are said to boost immune function. Eggs are a source of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Tofu is another good source of protein. Flaxseeds are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids and Vitamin E. The use of garlic cloves is optional -- some experts are advocates of garlic as beneficial to the canine. Others believe dogs should never be given garlic.
|Recipe |Frozen Beef Packs |
|Amount |Measure |Ingredients |Calories |
|3 |lbs |Beef, chicken or turkey |2832/2016/2160 |
|3 |cups |Brown rice, cooked |654 |
|2 |pcs |Medium tomatoes |40 |
|¼ |head |Cabbage |55 |
|2 |pcs |Broccoli florets |30 |
|3 |pcs |Eggs (yolks raw, whites cooked) |222 |
|¼ |lb |Tofu |97 |
|6 |tbsp |Salmon, flaxseed or cod liver oil |738/780/738 |
|1 |tsbp |Flaxseeds, hulled or cracked |50 |
|3-4 |cloves |Garlic (optional) |16 |
|Total |4734/4008/4062 |
| |4776/3960/4104 |
|Method |Steam or food-process the cabbage, broccoli and tomatoes. Combine in a large bowl. |
| |Add egg yolks into the vegetable bowl. Drop whites and crumbled shells into another bowl to be cooked. |
| |Cook the egg whites and crumbled shell until whites are solid. Add to vegetables. |
| |Add tofu and mix thoroughly. |
| |Cube meat into bite-sized pieces. Add to vegetable mix. |
| |Add flaxseeds and garlic. |
| |Add oil, a rotation of these is recommended. Mix thoroughly with your hands. |
| |Scoop into portion-sized bags, and flatten to squeeze the air out. |
| |Freeze bags. |
| |Thaw & serve. At serving time, yogurt, cottage cheese, and supplements. |
|Percentage of Daily Calorie |Toy Dog |Small Dog |Medium Dog |Large Dog |Extra-Large Dog |
|Requirement Met (same order as | | | | | |
|ingredient list) | | | | | |
| |1893% |631% |348% |258% |220% |
| |1603% |534% |294% |219% |185% |
| |1624% |541% |298% |221% |188% |
| |1910% |636% |351% |260% |222% |
| |1584% |528% |291% |216% |184% |
| |1641% |547% |301% |224% |190% |
Ground Beef Mix
(Raw Food For Weight Loss)
Recommended for weight loss in dogs because of its healthy balance of proteins, grains and vegetables. Proponents believe raw is nutritionally superior. Oatmeal is a healthy, easily digestible carbohydrate source and a whole grain, rich in vitamins and nutrients. Broccoli and watercress are excellent sources of beta-carotene. Broccoli is also said to boost immune function. Eggs are a source of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. If the dog resists exercise because of osteoarthritis pain, fresh ginger can help relieve this. Cod liver oil and salmon oil are among the most effective providers of Omega-3 fatty acids, are excellent sources of vitamins A & D, and also contain DHA, for healthy brain and eye development.
|Recipe |Ground Beef Mix |
|Amount |Measure |Ingredients |Calories |
|1 |lb |Ground beef, uncooked |1168 |
|2 |Cup |Prepared oats |600 |
|½ |Cup |Broccoli, chopped or food processed |15 |
|½ |Cup |Watercress, chopped or food processed |4 |
|1 |Egg |Egg |74 |
|1 |Tsp |Ginger |2 |
|1 |Tbsp |Cod liver oil |123 |
|1 |Tbsp |Salmon oil |123 |
| | | | |
|Total |2109 |
|Method |Combine all ingredients and mix thoroughly. |
| |Serve as is, in appropriate portion size. Leftovers can be refrigerated or frozen for later use. |
| |Supplements can be added at serving time. |
|Percentage of Daily Calorie |Toy Dog |Small Dog |Medium Dog |Large Dog |Extra-Large |
|Requirement Met | | | | |Dog |
| |843% |281% |155% |115% |98% |
Mom's Meatloaf
(For Weight Loss)
Recommended for weight loss in dogs because of its healthy balance of proteins, grains and vegetables. Eggs are a source of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Ricotta cheese is a healthy calcium source. Tomatoes are a source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Spinach is a source of beta-carotene and calcium. The use of garlic cloves is optional -- some experts are advocates of garlic as beneficial to the canine. Others believe dogs should never be given garlic. Cod liver & flaxseed oils are effective providers of Omega-3 fatty acids.
|Recipe |Whitefish Stew |
|Amount |Measure |Ingredients |Calories |
|4 |Cups |Chicken broth |152 |
|½ |Cup |Barley |97 |
|2 |Lb |Ground chicken or turkey |804/772 |
|½ |Cup |Cottage cheese |110 |
|2 |Pcs |Eggs |148 |
|½ |Cups |Rolled oats |150 |
|¼ |Cup |Finely chopped carrots |15 |
|¼ |Cup |Finely chopped spinach |3 |
|¼ |Cup |Finely chopped zucchini |5 |
|2 |Cloves |Garlic (optional) |8 |
|1 |tbsp |Olive oil |119 |
|Total |1611/1579 |
|Method |Combine chicken broth and barley in a large saucepan and bring to a boil. |
| |Reduce heat and simmer for 50 - 60 minutes. |
| |Set aside and cool. |
| |Preheat oven to 350°. |
| |In large mixing bowl combine chicken (or turkey), cottage cheese, eggs, oats, carrots, spinach, zucchini and garlic and |
| |mix well. |
| |Add cooled broth and olive oil and mix thoroughly. |
| |Put mixture in loaf pan and bake for one hour. |
| |Serve cooled. |
|Percentage of Daily Calorie |Toy Dog |Small Dog |Medium Dog |Large Dog |Extra-Large |
|Requirement Met | | | | |Dog |
| |644% |214% |118% |88% |74% |
| |631% |210% |116% |86% |73% |
Salmon Special
(For Weight Loss)
Recommended for weight loss in dogs because of the balance of healthy proteins, grains and vegetables. Salmon is low in saturated fat, has a high Omega-3 fatty acids content, and is a source of calcium, as is cottage cheese. Brown rice is a healthy, easily digestible carbohydrate source and a whole grain, rich in vitamins and nutrients. Vegetables are a natural source of vitamins and minerals. Carrots and peas are a good source of beta-carotene. Cod liver oil is one of the most effective providers of Omega-3 fatty acids, is an excellent source of vitamins A & D, and also contains DHA, for healthy brain and eye development. Seaweed is known for its high vitamin and mineral content. For further calorie reduction, you can substitute lowfat cottage cheese and use less cod liver oil.
|Recipe |Salmon Special |
|Amount |Measure |Ingredients |Calories |
|1 |Can |Pink salmon, reserve liquid |631 |
|1 |Can |Brown rice |218 |
|2 |Can |Water |0 |
|1 |Can |Frozen mixed vegetables, thawed |118 |
|½ |Can |Cottage cheese |110 |
|1 |Tbsp |Fresh parsley, chopped |4 |
|2 |Tbsp |Cod liver oil |246 |
|1 |package |Nori sheets |130 |
|Total |1457 |
|Method | |
| |Drain salmon, reserve liquid. |
| |In saucepan, combine reserved salmon liquid, rice and water. Cook until rice is done, set aside to cool. |
| |In a large bowl, combine salmon, rice, vegetables, cottage cheese, parsley and cod liver oil. Mix thoroughly. |
| |Place one Nori sheet on a flat surface and spread mixture 1/4" thick over Nori, leaving 1/4" edge. |
| |Dampen edge of Nori sheet and roll. |
| |Repeat until Nori sheets are used, or mixture is gone. |
| |Individually wrap rolls in plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve. Can freeze extras for later use, if desired.|
| |Cut rolls into bite size pieces for your dog and serve. |
| | |
| |*Nori is dried seaweed, and is found in the specialty section of the grocery store. |
|Percentage of Daily Calorie |Toy Dog |Small Dog |Medium Dog |Large Dog |Extra-Large |
|Requirement Met | | | | |Dog |
| |582% |194% |107% |79% |67% |
Turkey & Apple Skillet Shakeup
(For Weight Loss)
Recommended for weight loss in dogs because of the balance of of the balance of healthy proteins, grains and vegetables. Quinoa (pronounced keen-wah) is a healthy, easily digestible carbohydrate source and a whole grain, rich in vitamins and nutrients. Fruits and vegetables are natural sources of vitamins and minerals. Cabbage is believed to boost immune function. Green beans and parsley are good sources of beta-carotene.
|Recipe |Turkey & Apple Skillet Shakeup |
|Amount |Measure |Ingredients |Calories |
|1 |lb |Turkey sausage |912 |
|1 ½ |cups |Quinoa |954 |
|3 |cups |Water or chicken broth |114 |
|3 |pcs |Apples, any variety, peeled cored & grated |225 |
|2 |tbsp |Butter |204 |
|6 |cups |Cabbage, shredded |126 |
|1 |cup |Green beans, chopped |38 |
|½ |cup |Yellow bell pepper, chopped |12 |
|2 |tbsp |Water |0 |
|1 |tbsp |Cider vinegar |2 |
|½ |tsp |Salt |0 |
|¼ |tsp |Black turmeric |2 |
|1 |tbsp |parsley |4 |
|Total |2593 |
|Method |Combine all ingredients and mix thoroughly. |
| |Serve as is, in appropriate portion size. Leftovers can be refrigerated or frozen for later use. |
| |Supplements can be added at serving time. |
|Percentage of Daily Calorie |Toy Dog |Small Dog |Medium Dog |Large Dog |Extra-Large |
|Requirement Met | | | | |Dog |
| |1037% |345% |190% |141% |120% |
Turkey Kebabs With Eggplant Puree
(For Weight Loss)
Recommended for weight loss in dogs because of the balance of healthy proteins, grains and vegetables. Eggplant and tahini (sesame seed paste) are rich in vitamins and minerals. Parsley is a good source of beta-carotene. The use of garlic cloves is optional -- some experts are advocates of garlic as beneficial to the canine patient. Others believe dogs should never be given garlic. Walnut oil is a good source of Omega-3 fatty acids. Brown rice is a healthy, easily digestible carbohydrate source and a whole grain, rich in vitamins and nutrients. You can substitute cooked oatmeal for the brown rice.
|Recipe |Turkey Kebabs With Eggplant Puree |
|Amount |Measure |Ingredients |Calories |
|1 |lb |Turkey, cubed |720 |
|2 |tbsp |Walnut oil |240 |
|2 |tsp |Ground coriander seeds |10 |
|1 |tsp |Freshly ground turmeric |8 |
|2 |pcs |Medium-sized eggplants |220 |
|1 |clove |Minced garlic (optional) |4 |
|2 |tbsp |Lemon juice |6 |
|1 |tbsp |Tahini |95 |
|½ |tsp |Sea salt |0 |
|2 |ounces |Plain yogurt |40 |
|1 |tbsp |Parsley |4 |
|2 |cups |Cooked brown rice |436 |
|Total |1783 |
|Method |Combine coriander and turmeric in a medium-sized bowl. |
| |Roll the turkey cubes in the spices, coating lightly. |
| |Skewer meat, and set aside. |
| |Cook brown rice, per package instructions, and set aside. |
| |Grill eggplants until skins are black and blistered. |
| |Cool slightly, and skin them while still warm. |
| |In a large bowl, mash the flesh with a fork, adding garlic, lemon, tahini, sea salt, yogurt and parsley to make eggplant |
| |puree. |
| |Grill the kebabs over high heat, brushing with oil to keep moist. |
| |Combine cooked brown rice, eggplant puree and grilled meat cubes and mix thoroughly. |
| |Divide into appropriate portion size and serve cooled. |
| |Supplements can be added at serving time. |
|Percentage of Daily Calorie |Toy Dog |Small Dog |Medium Dog |Large Dog |Extra-Large |
|Requirement Met | | | | |Dog |
| |713% |237% |131% |97% |82% |
Whitefish Stew
(For Weight Loss)
Recommended for weight loss in dogs because of the balance of of healthy proteins, grains and vegetables. Sweet potatoes are a healthy, easily digestible carbohydrate source and an excellent source of beta-carotene, as are peas and carrots. Fruits and vegetables are natural sources of vitamins and minerals. Broccoli is another source of beta-carotene and is said to boost immune function. If the dog resists exercise because of osteoarthritis pain, fresh ginger can help relieve this. Tomato sauce and paste are sources of lycopene, a potent antioxidant. Blueberries are also a powerful antioxidant. The use of garlic cloves is optional -- some experts are advocates of garlic as beneficial to canine. Others believe dogs should never be given garlic.
|Recipe |Whitefish Stew |
|Amount |Measure |Ingredients |Calories |
|1 |lb |Whitefish (tilapia or halibut) |800 |
|4 |cups |Water |0 |
|3 |cups |Sweet potatoes, cubed |480 |
|½ |cup |Broccoli, chopped |15 |
|¼ |cup |Carrots, chopped |13 |
|½ |cup |Peas |59 |
|½ |cup |Orange bell pepper, chopped |20 |
|½ |cup |Red bell pepper, chopped |20 |
|1 |clove |Garlic, pressed (optional) |8 |
|1 |tbsp |Oregano |14 |
|1 |tbsp |Basil |11 |
|1 |tsp |Ginger |2 |
|2 |cup |Tomato sauce |156 |
|½ |cup |Tomato paste |120 |
|¼ |cup |Fresh blueberries |21 |
|Total |1739 |
|Method |In large pot, combine water, sweet potatoes, broccoli, carrots, peas and peppers, and bring to a boil. |
| |Simmer for about 30 minutes. |
| |Broil whitefish. Set aside to cool. |
| |Add garlic, oregano, basil, ginger and tomato sauce to vegetable mixture, continue to cook over low heat for about 15 |
| |minutes. |
| |Cut whitefish into bite-sized pieces. |
| |Add whitefish and blueberries to stew, stir thoroughly and cook for about a minute, then set aside to cool. |
| |Divide into appropriate portion sizes and serve cooled. Leftovers can be refrigerated or frozen for later use. |
| |Supplements can be added at serving time. |
|Percentage of Daily Calorie |Toy Dog |Small Dog |Medium Dog |Large Dog |Extra-Large |
|Requirement Met | | | | |Dog |
| |695% |231% |127% |95% |80% |
Addendum
Canine Body Condition Scoring
[pic]
Prevalence of Canine Obesity By Gender & Neuter Status
General Caloric Requirements For The Active, Adult Dog
|General Daily Caloric Requirements For The Active, Adult Dog |
|Target Weight |Normal Caloric Requirements |
|5.5 lb (2.5 kg) |250 calories |
|11 lb (5 Kg) |450 calories |
|22 Lb (10 Kg) |750 calories |
|33 Lb (15 Kg) |1000 calories |
|44 Lb (20 Kg) |1250 calories |
|55 Lb (25 Kg) |1500 calories |
|66 Lb (30 Kg) |1700 calories |
|77 Lb (35 Kg) |1880 calories |
|88 Lb (40 Kg) |2100 calories |
|99 Lb (45 Kg) |2300 calories |
|110 Lb (50 Kg) |2500 calories |
|Table 1 |
Caloric Requirements Reflecting Varying Needs Of The Dog
|Caloric Requirements Reflecting Varying Needs Of The Dog |
|Size Of Dog |10 Lb |30 Lb |50 Lb |70 Lb |90 Lb |
|Puppies (10 Lb, 33 Lb At Maturity) |990 |----- |----- |----- |----- |
|Young Adult Active Dogs |436 |993 |1451 |1876 |2264 |
|Inactive Dogs |296 |674 |989 |1272 |1540 |
|Adult Active Dogs |404 |922 |1353 |1740 |2100 |
|Pregnant Dogs |518 |1274 |1940 |2570 |3170 |
|"Dieting" Dogs |270 |580 |880 |1100 |1250 |
|Older Active Dogs |327 |745 |1093 |1407 |1700 |
|Table 2 |
Application Of The MER To Varying Activity Levels & Life Stages
|Application of The MER To Reflect Varying Activity Levels & Life Stages In Dogs |
|Activity Level |MER |Kcal/Day |
|Moderately Active |x 1 |937 |
|Less Active |x 0.8 |749 |
|Pregnant (1st 5 Wks) |x 1 |937 |
|Pregnant (Last 4 Wks) |x 1.1 - 1.6 |1030 - 1499 |
|Lactating |x 2 - 4 |1873 - 3747 |
|puppy (0 -50% Adult Weight) |x 2 - 4 |1873 - 3747 |
|Puppy (50 - 80% Adult Weight) |x 1.6 |1499 |
|Puppy (80 - 100% Adult Weight) |x 1.2 |1124 |
|Extreme Weather |x 1.25 - 2 |1171 - 1873 |
|Working Dog (Light Duty) |x 1.1 |1030 |
|Working Dog (Medium Duty) |x 1.4 |1311 |
|Working Dog (Heavy Duty) |x 2 - 4 |1873 - 3747 |
|Table 3 |
Sources & Benefits Of Omega-3 & Omega-6 Fatty Acids
|Sources & Benefits of Omega-3 & Omega-6 Fatty Acids |
|Essential Fatty Acid |Sources |Perceived Benefits |
|Omega-3 |Anchovy, Atlantic Mackerel, Cod Liver Oil, |Arthritis, Asthma, Atopy, Behavioral |
| |Eggs, Flaxseeds & Flaxseed oil, Hemp seed, |Problems, Cancer, Digestive Disease, |
| |Menhaden Fish, Pacific or Atlantic Herring,|Eosinophilic Granuloma Complex, Flea |
| |Pumpkin Seed Oil, Salmon, Salvia Hispanica,|Allergies, Heart Disease, Immune-mediated |
| |Sardines (in water), Soybean Oil, Sprat, |Skin Diseases, Kidney Disease, Learning |
| |Sturgeon, Trout, Tuna, Walnuts & Walnut oil|Difficulties, Military Dermatitis, |
| | |Seborrhea |
|Omega-6 |Black Currant Oil, Borage Oil, Canola Oil, |Cancer, Dry Coat, Mycoplasma, Seborrhea |
| |Corn Oil, Egg Yolks, Evening Primrose Oil, | |
| |Flaxseeds & Flaxseed Oil, Olive Oil, Peanut| |
| |Oil | |
|Table 4 |
Recommended Daily Allowances For Proteins & Fats In Canines
|Recommended Daily Allowances for Proteins & Fats in Canines |
| |Puppies (Weighing 12 lb., 33 |Adult Dogs (Weighing 33 |Pregnant Dogs (Weighing 33 |Nursing Dogs (Weighing 33 |
| |lb. at maturity) |lb.) |lb. w/6 puppies) |lb. with 6 puppies) |
|Crude Protein |56 g |25 g |69 g |158 g |
|Total Fat |21 g |14 g |29 g |67 g |
|Table 5 |
Recommended Daily Allowances For Minerals In Canines
|Recommended Daily Allowances for Minerals In Dogs |
|Mineral |daily Rda* |Signs of Deficiency/Excess |Dietary Sources |
| | |Hyperparathyroidism; decreases in bone mineral content & |Yogurt, Milk, Ricotta Cheese, |
|Calcium |.75 g |skeletal abnormalities/Skeletal aberrations, especially in|Sardines, Salmon, Perch, Spinach, |
| | |growing puppies of large breeds |Green Peas |
|Chlorine |150 mg |Reduced weight gain & weakness in puppies |Table Salt |
| | |Loss of hair pigmentation in puppies; anemia |Seafood, Organ Meats, Legumes, |
| | | |Mushrooms, Tomatoes, Potatoes, |
|Copper |1.5 mg | |Sweet Potatoes, Bananas, Black |
| | | |Pepper, Blackstrap Molasses |
|Iodine |220 μg |Enlargement of thyroid glands, dry sparse hair coat; |Seafood, Seaweed, Eggs, Meat, Dairy|
| | |weight gain/Excessive tearing, salivation & nasal |Products |
| | |discharge; dandruff | |
| | |Poor growth; pale mucous membranes; lethargy; weakness; |Liver, Beef, Chicken Liver, Kidney |
|Iron |7.5 mg |diarrhea/At acute levels, dangerous oxidative reactions |Beans, Spinach, Blackstrap Molasses|
| | |that lead to gastrointestinal & other tissue damage | |
| | |Reduction in weight gain, irritability & convulsions in |Halibut, Almonds, Cashews, Nuts, |
|Magnesium |150 mg |puppies; hyperextension of carpal joints and hind-leg |Spinach, Oatmeal, Potatoes, Yogurt,|
| | |paralysis later in life |Brown Rice, Banana |
|Manganese |1.2 mg |No studies of deficiencies in dogs |Whole Grains, Nuts, Leafy |
| | | |Vegetables, Chick Peas |
| | |Reduced weight gain; poor appetite; bowing & swelling of |Protein-rich foods, such as Meat, |
| | |forelimbs in puppies |Poultry, Fish, Eggs, Dairy |
|Phosphorous |.75 g | |Products, Nuts, Legumes; Whole |
| | | |Grains, Hard Potatoes, Dried Fruit,|
| | | |Garlic Cloves |
| | |Poor growth in puppies; paralysis of neck muscles & rear |Unprocessed foods, including Meat, |
| | |legs & general weakness later in life |Fish, Potatoes, Avocados, Dried |
|Potassium |1 g | |Apricots, Bananas, Citrus Juice, |
| | | |Dairy Products, Whole Grains |
| | |Anorexia; depression; breathing discomfort; coma; muscular|Nuts, Orange Roughy, Tuna, |
| | |degeneration |Swordfish, Ocean Perch, Sardines, |
|Selenium |90 μg | |Herring, Cod, Halibut, Salmon, |
| | | |Chicken, Whole Grain Wheat Flour, |
|Sodium |100 mg |Restlessness; increased heart rate, water intake, & |Table Salt |
| | |hemoglobin concentration; dry & tacky mucous membranes | |
|Zinc |15 mg |Poor weight gain; vomiting; skin lesions |Meat, Liver, Seafood |
|*Based on the needs of an adult dog weighing 33 lbs, consuming 1,000 calories/day |Table 6 |
|g = grams, mg = milligrams, μg = micrograms | |
Recommended Daily Allowances For Vitamins In Canines
|Recommended Daily Allowances for Minerals In Dogs |
|Vitamin |daily Rda* |Signs of Deficiency/Excess |Dietary Sources |
| | |Loss of body weight; fatty liver |Lecithin (Soybeans), Egg Yolks, |
|Choline |425 mg | |Brewer's Yeast, Wheat Germ, Fish, |
| | | |Peanuts, Liver, Cauliflower |
|Folic Acid |68 μg |Weight loss; decline in hemoglobin concentration |Lentils, Spinach, Black Beans, |
| | | |Asparagus, Grains, Chicken & Beef |
| | | |Liver, Peanuts, Sunflower Seeds, |
| | | |OJ |
| | |Anorexia; weight loss; inflammation of the lips, cheeks & |Beef liver, Peanuts, Chicken, |
|Niacin |4 mg |throat; profuse salivation; bloody diarrhea/Bloody feces; |Tuna, Salmon, Ground Beef, Peanut |
| | |convulsions |Butter |
|Pantothenic Acid |4 mg |Erratic food intake; sudden prostration or coma; rapid |Organ Meats, Lobster, Poultry, |
| | |respiratory & heart rates; convulsions; gastrointestinal |Soybeans, Lentils, Split Peas, |
| | |symptoms; reduced antibody production |Yogurt, Eggnog, Avocado, Mushroom,|
| | | |Sweet Potato |
| | | Anorexia; body weight loss; ataxia; conjunctivitis; |Broccoli, Carrots, Green Beans, |
| | |corneal disorders; skin lesions; respiratory ailments; |Green Leafy Vegetables, Peas, |
|Vitamin A |379 μg |increased susceptibility to infection/Imbalance in bone |Sweet Potatoes, Yams, Eggs, Milk, |
| | |remodeling processes; artery & vein degeneration; |Beef Liver |
| | |dehydration; central nervous system depression; joint pain | |
|Vitamin B1 (Thiamin) |0.56 mg |Failure to grow, weight loss & neurological abnormalities |Poultry, Whole Grain Cereals, |
| | |in puppies; damage to the nervous system & to the heart in |Nuts, Legumes, Brewer's Yeast |
| | |dogs | |
|Vitamin B2 |1.3 mg |Anorexia; weight loss; muscular weakness; flaking |Liver, Venison, Beef, Yogurt, |
|(Riboflavin) | |dermatitis; eye lesions |Soybeans, Spinach, Tempeh, |
| | |Anorexia & weight loss in puppies; convulsions, muscle |Potatoes, Bananas, Garbanzo Beans,|
|Vitamin B6 |0.4 mg |twitching & anemia in adults/Impairment of motor control & |Oatmeal, Beef, Trout, Sunflower |
| | |balance; muscle weakness |Seeds |
|Vitamin B12 |9 μg |Appetite loss; lack of white blood cells; anemia; bone |Meat, Dairy Products, Eggs |
| | |marrow changes | |
| | |Rickets; lethargy; loss of muscle tone; bone swelling & |Cod Liver Oil, Salmon, Mackerel, |
|Vitamin D |3.4 μg |bending/Anorexia; weakness, diarrhea; vomiting; |Tuna, Sardines, Milk, Eggs, Beef |
| | |calcification of soft tissue; excessive mineralization of |Liver |
| | |long bones; dehydration; dry & brittle hair; muscle atrophy| |
|Vitamin E |8 mg |Degeneration of skeletal muscle; reproductive failure; |Cold-pressed vegetable oils, such |
| | |retinal degeneration |as Sunflower, Safflower & Olive, |
| | | |Nuts, Sunflower Seeds, Soybeans |
| | |No reports of naturally occurring deficiencies in normal |Kale, Spinach, Collard Greens, |
|Vitamin K |0.41 mg |dogs |Swiss Chard, Turnip Greens, |
| | | |Mustard Greens, Brussel Sprouts, |
| | | |Broccoli, Parsley, Romaine Lettuce|
|*Based on the needs of an adult dog weighing 33 lbs, consuming 1,000 calories/day |Table 7 |
|g = grams, mg = milligrams, μg = micrograms | |
Keeping Homemade Food Healthful
|Keeping Homemade Food Healthful |
| |Foods To Avoid |Healthful Alternatives |
|Meats & Fish |Fatty Meats, Cured Meats (e.g., Sausage, |Cooked Lean Cuts of Boneless Chicken or |
| |Bacon, Hot Dogs), Fried Chicken, Raw Pork |Turkey, Beef, Lamb, Whitefish, Salmon & |
| | |Herring |
|Fat Sources |For Dogs, it is said there is no such thing|Fats High in Omega-3 Fatty Acids, such as |
| |as a 'Bad' Fat except Too Much Fat |Fish & Eggs, Flaxseed Oil, Salmon Oil |
|Vegetables |Batter-Dipped, Deep Fried Vegetables, |Alfalfa sprouts, Bok Choy, Broccoli, |
| |French Fries, Onions |Cabbage, Carrots, Celery, Chinese Cabbage, |
| | |Collards, Garlic, Green beans, Green leafy |
| | |vegetables, Peas, Sweet potatoes, Spinach |
| | |Summer Squash, Turnip Greens, Yams |
|Grains |White Bread, Pastries, Cookies, Cakes & Any|Cooked Rice, Barley, Bulgar, Polenta, |
| |Sugary Baked Goods |Oatmeal & Pasta |
|Breakfast Foods |Pancakes, Waffles & Processed Foods |Raw (except for Newborn Pups), Scrambled, |
| | |Fried (In Canola Oil), Hard Boiled or |
| | |Poached Eggs |
|Dairy |Whole Milk, Cream, Ice Cream |Plain Yogurt, Ricotta Cheese, Cottage |
| | |Cheese, Grated Hard Cheese |
|Fruits |Grapes & Raisins |Blueberries, Blackberries, Raspberries, |
| | |Strawberries, Melons, Apples, Pears, |
| | |Bananas & Cherries |
|Prepared People Foods |Junk Food, Frozen Dinners, Fast Food, |Stew or Soup with Meat & Vegetables, |
| |Chocolate & Any Sweets, Onion Soup |Meatloaf, Egg Salad, Tuna Salad |
| | |Table 8 |
Resources
Bibliography
Callahan, Jean, Your Older Dog, © 2001 Jean Callahan.
Heinerman, Dr. John, Natural Pet Cures, © 1998 Prentice Hall, Inc.
Lund, Elizabeth M., DVM, MPH, PhD, Armstrong, P. Jane, DVM, MS, MBA, et. al., "Prevalence and Risk Factors For Obesity in Adult Dogs from Private US Veterinary Practices," The International Journal of Applied Veterinary Medicine, Vol. 4, No. 2, 2006, pp. 177 - 186.
Mehus-Roe, Kristin, Editor, Dog Bible, The Definitive Source for All Things Dog, 2005, Bowtie Press.
National Research Council of the National Academies, Your Dog's Nutritional Needs, A Science-Based Guide for Pet Owners, 2006, National Academy of Sciences.
Simon, John M., D.V.M., Anti-Aging For Dogs, © 1998 The Philip Lief Group.
Websites
, © 2007 The Iams Company.
, © 2007 ASPCA.
, © 2007 Canine Companions for Independence, Inc.
, © 2007 Canis Major Publications.
, © 2007 Ever Life Animal Health LLC.
, © 2006 UK National German Shepherd Dog Helpline.
, © 2000-2007 Chinaroad Löwchen.
, © 2002 M. Villanueva.
, © 2007 The New York Times Company.
, © 1997-2007, Foster & Smith, Inc.
, © Société des Produits Nestlé S.A.
, ©2007 About, Inc.
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