We've all done it. Our adorable furry friend is smiling at us from under the kitchen table. His ears are perked up, and his tail is wagging. We know what our dogs are craving. Just one small bite of dinner would be welcome, wouldn't it? What's wrong with that? Just a bite or two.
Keep an ear on Fido, he won't want to hear this. Dog food really shouldn't contain leftovers. Human food is just that... for humans. Dogs' nutritional needs are not the same as humans'. Sure, we eat some things the same way, but feeding animals from the table is one of the biggest mistakes in this regard. Dog food doesn't need all the extra stuff we put in our food.
Humans have an obesity problem and dogs can have this problem too
If your dog's diet consists mostly of leftover food, chances are he or she will have trouble maintaining a healthy weight. Even a few extra pounds can affect the quality and length of your pet's life. Stop praying and stick to your guns.
If you have a dog that isn't picky about food, it may be tempting to let your pet become a garbage can, but in reality it's not a good idea. Some human foods can be harmful to your dog and should not be included in his diet. Grapes, for example, are known to cause serious problems and even death in dogs. Chicken bones and popcorn can also cause problems for your dog. Allowing large amounts of chocolate in your dog's diet can be dangerous.
Poor nutrition is also visible in the yard
If your dog's diet is not in the best order, it will yield more, smell worse and be messier. The benefits of a healthy dog diet will also carry over to your pet's health when walking around the neighborhood.
In some cases, supplements or treats from the kitchen may be necessary, but never in excess. Ask your veterinarian about healthy foods for your dog. If you must continue to feed Fido at the table, many veterinarians recommend giving him ice cubes or carrot pieces to chew on between meals. By giving your pet these healthy alternatives to pizza and cupcakes, you have the freedom to choose healthy and nutritious snacks for your dog's diet.
So the next time your beloved pet starts to look at your food, direct his attention elsewhere. Don't reach for the fatty steak or chicken leg. Instead, give your friend a cool, refreshing ice cube to try and chew on. A few carrots for Fido will make him happy, and you'll be reassured about the nutritional value of his food. You'll know you're doing everything you can to provide quality food for your pet.
