Dog nutrition is one of the most frequently misunderstood aspects of pet ownership. This guide covers the basics every dog owner should know — from reading ingredient labels to understanding how much to feed based on your dog’s weight and activity level.
The Building Blocks of Canine Nutrition
Dogs are omnivores, meaning they can digest and use nutrients from both animal and plant sources. A balanced dog diet includes protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and water. The specific ratios vary based on age, breed, size, and health status.
Reading a Dog Food Label
The first ingredient listed is present in the highest amount by weight. Look for a named protein source (chicken, beef, salmon) as the first ingredient. Avoid foods where corn, wheat, or unspecified “meat by-products” are the primary ingredients.
How Much to Feed
Most commercial dog foods provide feeding guidelines based on weight. A general starting point: adult dogs need approximately 25-30 calories per pound of body weight per day for maintenance. Active dogs, puppies, and pregnant dogs need more.
Foods That Are Toxic to Dogs
Never feed your dog: grapes or raisins, chocolate, xylitol, onions or garlic, macadamia nuts, alcohol, or cooked bones. These can cause serious health problems or death.