Diet food for dogs is available for canines that need to lose weight or have a medical condition. Diet is important in the healing process of a sick dog. Overweight dogs are not healthy dogs and one way of reaching a normal weight is by eating diet food. An obese dog may be exposed to several health issues: heart disease, arthritis, high blood pressure or respiratory disease.
Raw Diet
A raw diet may be very helpful in treating certain medical conditions and fits well in a weight loss program for dogs.
You can completely control what your dog eats and when he eats, so you may increase the protein and fat intake and lower the amount of carbs in the dog's diet.
However, a raw diet raises a few problems: it takes a lot of your time and you may end up depriving your dog from necessary nutrients. Talk to your vet and make sure you include the necessary ingredients in your dog's diet.
Keep in mind that dogs typically need at least 20% protein every day. Include raw vegetables in your dog's diet, up to 30% of the meal. Stay away from raw garlic and onions, as these are toxic for dogs.
Raw meat may also contain parasites, so make sure you get your meat from a trustworthy source.
Prescription Diet
An obese dog or a dog with a health condition may receive a prescription diet from the vet. The vet will indicate the exact nutrients your pet needs, so you will need to either buy prescription dog food or prepare the food at home.
Wet Food
Wet food has a lower percentage of calories than dry food and is recommended in weight loss or medical conditions such as constipation or kidney disease.
Canned food contains more water and this will make your dog feel full, so he will eat less. Dry food contains a lot of carbohydrates which contribute to weight gain. Dry food has a lot of flour and sugar, and a dieting dog should cut down on these.
However, dry food is important to prevent gum diseases and plaque, so if you switch to wet food, make sure you offer some dry treats to your pet. The treats should be high in protein and low in carbs.
Light Food
You will be able to find a light version of dog food, so this may be recommended in a weight loss diet. This contains fewer calories and should include the needed nutrients for your dog.
Dogs need a lot of protein, but they can easily cut down on carbs. Discuss with your vet and bring the label of the light food you are considering as dog food for your pet.
Supplements
Dogs that eat diet food may be deprived of certain vitamins or minerals, so the vet may prescribe a few supplements that will keep your pet's diet balanced. Antioxidants such as selenium or vitamin E or supplements of omega 3 and 6 may be recommended.
Adult dogs should be fed once per day and you may give an occasional treat. Make sure there is always fresh water, which is essential in a dog's diet.