The prices of commercial dog food in our country are sky rocketing. While most of us love our pets, we might not be able to afford those packaged diet for them. Also, there are some dogs that simply cannot process commercial foods. So we at The Week spoke to Dr Sharad Singh Yadav, chairman of Advanced Pet Hospital and Research Centre, Bishal Nagar, Kathmandu to help you find the perfect diet alternative for your pet.   

Understanding their digestive system

A dog’s stomach is definitely the key to its good health. What most fail to realize, according to Dr Yadav, is that “digestive system of dogs is different from ours.” These animals are meat eaters and they definitely need more protein than us. They also have an acidic stomach and a stronger digestive system. Hence, they can easily digest hard things such as bones. Feeding dogs appropriately ensures good digestive system health and strengthens their immunity. “The bacteria on your dog’s gut comprises of 70% of the dog’s total immune system,” says Dr Yadav. “Hence a good stomach automatically ensures good health,” he adds. 

The perfect diet

When it comes to food your dog must be provided with a balanced diet. “More than 50% of the cases that we treat every day in our hospital are cases of nutritional deficiencies among dogs,” says Dr Yadav. Feeding your dog homemade food is definitely not a bad idea as commercial food at times can be contaminated. The most important thing to keep in mind while preparing food for your dog is to make sure you provide them with a nutrient rich diet. A balanced diet must comprise of carbohydrates, calcium, protein, fibre, vitamins and minerals. 

Protein for dogs is extremely essential. In fact, they need a lot more protein than us. A good source of protein for dogs is meat. If you are feeding your dog chicken, do not give chicken head, liver, or legs as they do not really have nutritional values. Daal is also a good source of protein for your dogs. Soya beans and eggs can also formulate a protein rich diet for your pet. 

Calcium helps in building strong bones for dogs. It also keeps their nails, coat and teeth healthy.  “Calcium is required for digestion, working of their muscles, releasing of hormones and proper nerve functioning,” says Dr Yadav. Cheese and yogurt can be a great source of calcium for dogs. Do not feed a large amount of cheese to your dog as it may lead to indigestion. However, yogurt can be a great treat for your dog and can be fed every day. 

 “Fibre is often the most neglected part of a dog’s diet,” says Dr Yadav. Carrots, green beans, spinach and apple can be great sources of fibre. It is important to regulate the bowel movement of dogs and also helps relieve indigestion, constipation, and diarrhoea. A fibrous diet for your pet can also help it lose weight.

The best source of carbohydrate for dogs in Nepal is definitely rice and barley. “The most common mistake made by Nepali pet owners is to feed their pet food that in rich only in carbohydrate and protein. For example daal and rice or meat and rice,” says Dr Yadav. “Remember fibre and minerals are equally important for your pets,” he adds.

What to avoid

Humans can easily digest certain products that dogs cannot. “One should be very careful while feeding their dogs,” says Dr Yadav. “Unsuitable food can lead to minor irritation or even a major cardiac arrest,” he adds. Here is a list of food that you must avoid giving your pet. 

Chocolate

Chocolates can be poisonous for dogs. Theobromine is the toxic component present in chocolates. While humans can digest it very easily dogs cannot process it. Consuming chocolate can often lead to vomiting, upset stomach and indigestion. 

Raw meat and eggs

Raw meat and eggs contain Salmonella bacteria that are harmful for dogs. Feeding your dogs raw food may lead to indigestion and sometimes even diarrhoea. 

Milk

“Most pet owners are not aware that dogs develop lactose intolerance after three months of birth,” says Dr Yadav. They may have intestinal problems, acidity, diarrhoea etc after consuming milk. Hence, yogurt can be a great source of calcium for dogs but not milk.  

Onions, garlic and raw potato

Onions contain theosulphate which is toxic for dogs. They also cannot digest garlic like we do. And raw potatoes can cause indigestion among dogs. 

Apple seeds and grapes

While apples are good for dogs, its seeds can be extremely dangerous. Apple seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides that can cause an upset stomach. Grapes even in small quantities can be lethal for dogs. 

Avocados and wild mushrooms

Avocado can be toxic to dogs as it contains a toxin call persin. Wild mushrooms, on the other hand, are extremely dangerous for dogs as it can cause kidney and liver failure and dehydration. 

 
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