When buying large breed dog food, owners recognize that their big pets don't have the same nutritional needs as other breeds and that all dog foods are not the same. There are many cheap and unhealthy food products with fillers and preservatives and without the nutrients, your large breed dog needs for a long, healthy and active life. Look for these key ingredients when you purchase dog food or make your own homemade meals for your pet:
- Fatty acids like omega-3 and omega-6 for a healthy, shiny and itch-free coat and energy.
- Fiber for a healthy digestive system. Carrots are a great source of fiber and good treat for dogs.
- Vitamins and minerals such as glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate to maintain healthy joints. Large breed dogs are known for their problems with joints and bone disease and a diet with these vitamins, along with plenty of exercise and good genes, can prevent these types of diseases.
- Antioxidants like vitamins C and E and selenium to fight cancer growth and improve immune systems.
- Proteins are an important ingredient for your dog, but proteins must come from reliable sources such as chicken or lamb and not meat by-products or meat and bone meal. Though there is some debate between low and high protein diets for large breed dogs, the best protein comes from healthy sources and not meat by-products or only grains.