What should I feed my dog to keep them healthy?

A balanced diet with high-quality protein (chicken, beef, fish or pork), healthy fats, vegetables, and appropriate amounts of carbohydrates is ideal. The food should be age-appropriate (puppy, adult, senior) and match their activity level and health needs. Ultra Balance Puppy and Ultra Balance Adult dog food is a balanced complete diet that contains no corn or soy in the diet.

What are the best types of food for puppies?

Puppies need food that’s formulated for growth, with higher protein and fat content. Look for foods labeled specifically for puppies, as they support their rapid growth and development.

What’s the difference between dry food, wet food, and raw food?

Dry food (kibble) is convenient, affordable, and helps with dental health. Ultra Balance Dog and Puppy are good examples of a dry kibble. Wet food is more palatable and has higher moisture content, which can benefit dogs that are prone to dehydration or have dental issues. Combining a dry and wet food is a good way to get the “best of both worlds.” Raw food is a diet of uncooked meat and bones, which proponents say is closer to a dog’s natural diet, but it requires careful preparation and storage. Making sure you keep an eye on expiration dates when using a raw diet.

What nutrients do dogs need in their diet?

Dogs need proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins (A, D, E, K), minerals (calcium, phosphorus), and water. Their diet should include essential fatty acids, fiber, and a balanced mix of nutrients to promote overall health.

What’s the best food for senior dogs?

Senior dogs may need food lower in calories but higher in fiber and joint-supporting nutrients like glucosamine and chondroitin. Food with appropriate protein levels for aging muscles and easily digestible ingredients is ideal. Making sure pre and probiotics are included in your dogs diet.

Can I feed my dog table scraps?

It’s best to avoid feeding your dog table scraps, as many human foods can be harmful to dogs, such as garlic, onions, and chocolate. Scraps can also lead to obesity and digestive issues.

Is raw food safe for dogs?

A raw food diet can be safe for dogs if prepared properly to avoid bacterial contamination. However, there are risks, such as an unbalanced diet and the possibility of bones causing injury. Consult with a Vet before switching to raw food.

Are grains bad for dogs?

Grains are not inherently bad for dogs, and many dogs can digest them without issues. Some dogs may have grain allergies or sensitivities ( corn and soy can be the cause of some skin allergies), but for most, grains like rice and oats provide valuable nutrients.

Can I give my dog human food like vegetables or fruit?

Many vegetables and fruits are safe for dogs, such as carrots, blueberries, and sweet potatoes. However, some human foods, like grapes, raisins, and onions, are toxic to dogs. Always check before offering any human food to your dog.

What are common toxic foods for dogs that I should avoid?

Common toxic foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, alcohol, caffeine, and xylitol (found in sugar-free gum and candies). Keep these foods well out of reach of your dog.

How do I choose the best dog food brand?

Look for reputable brands with high-quality ingredients, clear labels, and specific formulations for your dog’s age, breed, and health needs. Avoid foods with too many fillers, artificial colors, or preservatives. Check for AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) certification. Ultra balance dog has few fillers with no corn or soy. The formula has pre and probiotics for better digestion. The Ultra Balance dog foods also very palatable.

Should I be concerned about food additives or preservatives in dog food?

While some preservatives are necessary for food safety, natural preservatives like Vitamin E (mixed tocopherols) or Vitamin C are preferred over synthetic ones like BHA or BHT. Always aim for food with fewer artificial additives. Ultra Balance does not have BHA or BHT in the formula.

Can I feed my dog homemade food?

Homemade food can be healthy if it’s well-balanced. However, it’s challenging to ensure dogs get all necessary nutrients in the right proportions. Consulting a vet or pet nutritionist and using veterinary-approved recipes is advised. Adding a concentrated daily vitamin/mineral to your homemade food will help to balance the diet.

Can I feed my dog a vegetarian or vegan diet?

While dogs are omnivores and can survive on plant-based diets, it’s important to ensure they get all the necessary nutrients, including protein, amino acids, and vitamins like B12, which may require supplementation. Consult your vet before making this change.

What’s the importance of protein in my dog’s diet?

Protein is essential for building and maintaining muscle mass, supporting healthy skin and coat, and enabling a strong immune system. Dogs need high-quality animal-based proteins for optimal health. The more active the dog, the more protein level should be fed. Sports dog food is usually a higher protein food.

How are your pet foods preserved?

Star Milling’s pet foods are preserved with Vitamin E (mixed tocopherols – alpha, beta, gamma and delta isomers), Vitamin C, and propionic acid, which is a natural mold inhibitor. We do not use preservatives such as BHA, BHT, or ethoxyquin.

Are supplements necessary for my dog’s diet?

If your dog is on a complete and balanced commercial diet, supplements are generally not necessary. However, dogs with specific health conditions (e.g., arthritis, digestive issues) may benefit from supplements like omega-3s, glucosamine, or probiotics.

What if my dog eats cat food or vice-versa?

Dogs and cats have different nutritional requirements. It is normally safe for dogs to consume cat foods, but it is not recommended for optimum nutrition. Cats are true carnivores, so they require more protein than what is found in dog food. It is okay if cats eat dog food occasionally, but they may become malnourished if dog food is their main source of nutrition.

What is the shelf life of dog food?

Every bag or tag has an expiration date that displays the shelf life. Typically it is one year from the date of manufacture for dry dog foods. It is important to check the stamp on the bag or tag for expiration dates.

How often should I feed my dog and/or puppy?

Puppies typically need to eat 3–4 times per day, while adult dogs usually eat 2 meals per day. Senior dogs may also do well with 2 meals per day, but some may prefer smaller, more frequent meals.

How much food should I give my dog based on their weight?

The amount of food depends on your dog’s weight, age, and activity level. Generally, follow the feeding guidelines on the dog food packaging, but adjust portions based on your dog’s individual needs (such as weight gain or loss). Follow your breeders recommendations for the particular breed as some breeds grow quicker than others.

How often should I feed my puppy?

Puppies from 10 weeks to 6-8 months old get three meals per day. Dogs older than eight months can be fed once or twice daily, depending on the breed, activity, and appetite. Feeding an adult dog two small portions a day, instead of one big meal, can help prevent bloat.

How do I transition my dog to a new food?

Gradually transition by mixing the new food with the old food over 7–10 days, slowly increasing the amount of the new food while decreasing the old food. This helps prevent digestive upset and ensures a smooth switch.

How do I know if my dog has food allergies?

Signs of food allergies include itching, gastrointestinal upset, ear infections, or chronic skin issues. If you suspect allergies, consult your vet for proper diagnosis and possibly an elimination diet.

My dog has loose stools. What's wrong?

There are a few different causes for loose stools or diarrhea, such as over-feeding, switching to a new food too quickly, or a non-food related condition. Over-feeding is a common cause of loose stools. It causes the dog’s system to overload and its body reacts by producing loosely formed stools. By reducing the feeding amount, the stools may return to normal in a day or two. Abruptly switching foods may cause loose stools as well. It can take a dog’s digestive system up to six weeks to completely adapt to new food. Slowly adding the new food over three weeks can make the change easier on the dog. Please consult your veterinarian if you believe the problem is not due to over-feeding or a recent change in dog food.

Why does my dog have gas after eating?

It is natural for dogs to have gas, and some have more than others. Younger dogs often have more gas than older dogs. Excess flatulence may be due to overeating, eating too fast, or a recent change in diet. If your dog has recently changed food, his gas may decrease naturally within a few weeks. Tips: Break up your dog’s food into more, smaller meals. Verify you are feeding the correct portion size. If applicable, cease feeding supplements to your dog. Help your pet eat slower by feeding them on a plate or tray. Please consult your veterinarian if these common solutions do not work for your pet.

Are purebred dogs better than mixed breed dogs?

The benefit of a purebred dog is that you know how he will look as an adult. In a puppy’s mother, you can get a good idea of the final size, coat type, and characteristics. This helps you to choose a dog that fits your lifestyle. However, mixed breed dogs have less genetic disorders.

Puppy Development

Feeding tips for growth & training

Dog Food

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How to Feed Your Growing Puppy for a Healthy Start

Bringing home a new puppy is exciting, and one of the most important responsibilities you have as a pet parent is ensuring they get the right nutrition during their rapid growth phase. Puppies develop quickly in their first year, and feeding them a high-quality, balanced diet supports everything from strong bones and muscles to sharp minds and energetic playtime.

A quality puppy food should be formulated to meet a young dog’s unique needs, with the right levels of protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals to fuel growth without excess calories that can cause skeletal problems. One excellent option for this critical stage is Ultra Balance Meat & Rice Puppy Food from Star Milling. This complete, balanced puppy formula is free from corn, wheat, and soy (which can trigger allergies in some dogs) and is made specifically for growing pups.

Why a Puppy-Specific Diet Matters

Unlike adult dogs, puppies can require up to twice the energy (calories) per pound of body weight because of their rapid physical development. They also need higher levels of protein, essential fatty acids, and nutrients that support brain development, muscle growth, strong teeth, and a healthy immune system.

Here’s what quality puppy nutrition helps with:

Healthy bones & muscles through balanced calcium and phosphorus levels
Cognitive growth supported by fats like omega-3 and DHA
Strong immune function from antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals
Digestive health with easy-to-absorb ingredients and probiotics

Puppy eating Ultra Balance Meat & Rice Puppy Food

Choosing a food formulated just for puppies ensures all these elements are present in the right balance.

Setting the Right Feeding Schedule

Puppies have smaller stomachs and higher energy needs than adults, so feeding frequency matters:

8-12 weeks: 3–4 meals per day
3–6 months: 3 meals per day
6-12 months: 2 meals per day

Gradually reducing the number of meals while keeping total daily intake consistent helps regulate digestion and energy levels. Be sure to measure meals based on your puppy’s weight and age, and adjust portions as they grow. Too much food can lead to unwanted weight gain, while too little can hinder development. Regular vet visits are key to keeping your puppy on track.

How Much to Feed Your Puppy

When using Ultra Balance Meat & Rice Puppy Food, follow the feeding chart provided on the bag. For example:

dog sitting next to his bowl of food without corn, wheat or soy

Puppy Weight	Daily Feeding Amount
Up to 10 lbs.	1 – 2 ½ cups/day
10 – 20 lbs.	2 – 3 ½ cups/day
20 – 30 lbs.	2 ½ – 4 ½ cups/day
30 – 40 lbs.	3 – 5 ½ cups/day
40 – 60 lbs.	4 – 6 ½ cups/day

These amounts should be split into multiple meals per day, especially when your puppy is young. Always provide fresh, clean water alongside food at every meal.

Tips for Training and Growth

Good feeding routines also support training and behavior in your new puppy.

🐾 Be Consistent

Feed at the same times each day. Puppies thrive with routine, and predictable meals help with housetraining and obedience cues.

🍗 Use Food as Reward

Use a small amount of puppy food or healthy treats to reward good behavior during training sessions. Just remember treats should make up only a small portion of daily calories.

📏 Monitor Growth

Track your puppy’s weight and body condition. Adjust feeding amounts gradually rather than suddenly increasing portions. Abrupt diet changes can upset their digestive system.

Final Thoughts

Feeding your puppy the right food, such as Ultra Balance Meat & Rice Puppy Food, and following a thoughtful feeding schedule sets the foundation for a healthy, happy life. Puppies grow fast, but with the right nutrition and care, every wag, jump, and play session will be powered by balanced, purposeful nourishment.

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