What diabetic dog food to feed my dog?
Posted on: June 28, 2011
In feeding your diabetic dog you will have to avoid dog foods that have carbs and sugar. You will be surprised on the amount of sugar and carbs in most commercial dog food. Carbs or carbohydrates are sugar because when ingested the body converts them into glucose which is a type of sugar. Hypoglycemia results when the blood sugar levels drops this is a serious condition and the biggest culprit are commercial dog foods. Here are some things to consider when selecting diabetic dog food.
- NOTHING BEATS NATURAL FOOD.
Homemade foods are the best for your dog because you will be able to keep track of the amount of carbs and sugar they are getting. Homemade foods are not as expensive or as much work as you think you can check online for advice and recipes for natural dog food.
- HIGH QUALITY DOG FOOD.
If you can't avoid commercial dog foods, it would be better to give your pet good quality canned dog food that is low in sodium and carbs. Do check the ingredients on the label to see what exactly are you feeding your dog it are even better if the canned dog food is organic.
- REFRAIN FEEDING YOUR PET MOST DRY DOG FOODS.
Most dry dog foods are high in simple carbs. If you would like to feed your pet dry dog food, be sure to look for dry dog food that is high in fiber and protein. You should always consider other sources of nutrition like those in natural foods because even high quality dog food has not enough nutrition for your diabetic dog.
- MONITOR THE FAT INTAKE
In a diabetic dog the pancreas plays an important role in regulating blood sugar and insulin, it also produces enzymes that breaks down fat. It is important not to overwork the pancreas by lessening the fat intake of your diabetic dog.
- GOOD GRAINS FOR A HEALTHIER DOG
Grains like oats, brown rice and millet should always be considered in a diabetic dog's diet they are a good source of fiber that helps regulate sugar levels.
- ADD VEGETABLES
Small portions of fresh vegetables and fruits provide vitamins and nutrients to your dog's diet. Don't worry about the natural sugars in fruits and vegetables they don't have detrimental effects like processed sugars.
- LAST BUT NOT THE LEAST, DON'T GIVE FOODS WITH SUGAR
Sweet treats like baked goods and dog biscuits should not be given to a diabetic dog including other forms of sugar like syrup and fructose.
Do remember to consult your vet before making changes to your dog's diet and remember that the amount of food you feed your dog must also be monitored most vets recommend two to three small portion of food rather than one big serving.