When Does Your Dog Require A Special Diet?

When Does Your Dog Require A Special Diet? 

How Can You Tell Whether Your Dog Needs a Special Diet? Easy—just have a good look at him. Look at your dog from the top and the side. Can you see a prominent waistline behind his ribs? If not, he might be getting a bit too chubby. Chances are, he's getting older and his energy level is dropping, but you're continuing with the same food and treats as when he was younger and more active. Check out the obesity page to find out how to modify his diet so Chief can regain his youthful figure. On the other hand, Patches may be listless and eating very little. At this point, you'd be well advised to make an appointment with your veterinarian. You should rule out any medical problems before trying to switch Patches to tastier, more appealing (and maybe fatter) food. Visit the Medical Needs page to read about the dietary needs of sick dogs. Finally, you probably know several dogs on a diet because they're allergic to regular dog food. Don't switch to Lamb and Rice until you've had a look at our Food Allergies page. How Much Do You Love Your Dog? Does Lady have her own toothbrush and beef-flavored toothpaste? Does Pharaoh's name appear on his dish? Does Fifi have her own cookie jar? Does Bowers get dog food that has you taking out a second mortgage on your home? Well, pampering your dog is one of life's great joys, but Bowers could lead a long, healthy life with simple, healthy food. All he needs is a year of puppy food, about 6 years of adult food, then a nutritious diet in his waning years that matches his appetite and energy needs.