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.

The Dog Flu

10 facts you should know

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Facts on Dog Flu: 10 Things Every Dog Owner Should Know

Dog flu, also known as canine influenza, is a contagious respiratory infection that can affect dogs of any age or breed. Understanding the facts on dog flu can help dog owners recognize common symptoms, understand how canine influenza spreads, and know when to contact a veterinarian. Learn about the causes of dog flu, available treatment options, recovery, and ways to help protect your dog from infection.

Dog Flu Facts at a Glance

What is dog flu? A contagious respiratory illness caused by canine influenza viruses.
What are the symptoms? Coughing, sneezing, nasal or eye discharge, fever, tiredness, and reduced appetite.
How does dog flu spread? Through respiratory droplets, close contact with infected dogs, and contaminated objects or surfaces.
Is dog flu contagious to other dogs? Yes. Infected dogs can sometimes spread the virus before showing symptoms.
Can dogs recover from dog flu? Most dogs recover within two to three weeks, although some develop serious complications.
How is dog flu treated? Treatment typically focuses on supportive care and managing complications under veterinary guidance.
Can dog flu be prevented? Good hygiene, avoiding sick dogs, and discussing vaccination with a veterinarian can help reduce risk.

10 Facts About Canine Influenza

1. What Is Dog Flu? Understanding Canine Influenza.

Dog flu, or canine influenza, is a contagious respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses that affect dogs. It can cause symptoms ranging from a mild cough to more serious respiratory illness. Because infected dogs can spread the virus to other dogs, early recognition and appropriate precautions are important.

2. Which Types of Canine Influenza Affect Dogs?

Two canine influenza virus subtypes have been identified in dogs: H3N8 and H3N2. H3N8 originated in horses before adapting to dogs, while H3N2 originated from an avian influenza virus. H3N2 is the subtype currently associated with canine influenza outbreaks in the United States. H3N8 has not been reported in the United States since 2016, and ongoing circulation has not been established.

3. How Does Dog Flu Spread Between Dogs?

Canine influenza spreads through respiratory droplets released when infected dogs cough or sneeze. It can also spread through contaminated objects, including food and water bowls, toys, leashes, and shared surfaces. Dogs in boarding facilities, shelters, daycare centers, and other places where dogs gather may face greater exposure. People can also transfer the virus on contaminated hands or clothing.

4. Can Humans Catch Dog Flu From Dogs?

There is no evidence that canine influenza viruses have spread from dogs to people. Dog flu is different from the seasonal influenza viruses that commonly infect humans. Although people can transfer the virus between dogs on contaminated hands or clothing, there is currently no evidence of human infection with canine influenza viruses.

Dog receiving vet care for dog flu | Star Milling Co.

5. What Are the Symptoms of Dog Flu?

Common dog flu symptoms include persistent coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, eye discharge, fever, tiredness, and reduced appetite. Some dogs develop more serious respiratory complications, including pneumonia. Because other illnesses, including kennel cough, can cause similar symptoms, a veterinarian should evaluate a dog with suspected canine influenza.

6. Can Dogs Spread the Flu Without Showing Symptoms?

Yes. Some dogs infected with canine influenza may show few or no obvious symptoms while still spreading the virus to other dogs. If your dog has been exposed to an infected dog, monitor for signs of respiratory illness and limit contact with other dogs if illness is suspected. Contact your veterinarian for advice about isolation and when normal social activities can safely resume.

7. How Serious Is Dog Flu & How Long Does It Last?

Many dogs experience mild illness and recover within two to three weeks. However, some dogs develop secondary infections or pneumonia that require additional veterinary care. Because symptoms can resemble other respiratory diseases, seek veterinary guidance if your dog develops a persistent cough, fever, reduced appetite, or unusual tiredness. Difficulty breathing or rapidly worsening symptoms warrant urgent veterinary attention.

Dog resting at home while recovering from respiratory illness

8. How Is Dog Flu Treated?

There is no specific antiviral treatment routinely used for canine influenza. Veterinary care focuses on supportive treatment, maintaining hydration and comfort, and monitoring for complications. However, dogs with a contagious respiratory disease (of any kind) should be isolated from other dogs to prevent spreading.

Antibiotics may be prescribed when a secondary bacterial infection is present, but they do not treat the influenza virus itself. Follow your veterinarian’s instructions and do not give human cold or flu medications to your dog unless specifically directed by a veterinarian.

9. Can Dogs Get Vaccinated Against Dog Flu?

Vaccines for canine influenza H3N2 are available in the United States. Vaccination may be recommended for dogs that regularly attend daycare, visit boarding facilities, travel, or spend time around large groups of dogs. The vaccine does not guarantee that a dog will avoid infection, and protection depends on the vaccine and the virus involved. Ask your veterinarian whether canine influenza vaccination is appropriate for your dog.

10. When Should You Take Your Dog to the Vet for Dog Flu?

Contact your veterinarian if your dog develops a persistent cough, sneezing, nasal or eye discharge, fever, or unusual tiredness. Call ahead before visiting if canine influenza is suspected so the clinic can take steps to limit exposure to other dogs. Seek urgent veterinary care if your dog has difficulty breathing or experiences rapidly worsening symptoms. Early veterinary guidance can help identify complications and determine the appropriate care.

How to Help Protect Your Dog From Dog Flu

Maintaining your dog’s overall health is important, but preventing canine influenza also requires practical precautions. Avoid contact with dogs showing signs of respiratory illness, practice good hygiene, and ask your veterinarian whether vaccination is appropriate for your dog’s lifestyle. If your dog develops flu-like symptoms, keep them away from other dogs and seek veterinary guidance.

Of course, proper nutrition is another important part of everyday canine wellness. Star Milling offers dog food options, including Ace Hi Chunk Dog Food, Kelley’s K-9 Country Dog Food, or Ultra Balance Meat & Rice Dog Food to help dog owners meet their pets’ nutritional needs.

Dog flu symptoms can vary depending on your pet, but being informed and proactive can help protect your furry friend. Stay vigilant, consult your vet, and keep your dog’s health a top priority.

Have more questions?

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