In the first months of puppy‘s life, it is very important to create a proper nutrition plan. Puppies require special nutrition from birth to 12 months of age. The transition from milk nutrition, which they get from mother to adult food is a gradual process. It usually begins when puppy is approximately 6 weeks of age. Then you can start feeding puppy with dry food little by little.
Initially, it is recommended to fill it with warm water and allow to swell. This reveals the taste and smell of the food more strongly and makes it easier for the puppy to chew the pellets.
Once you have discovered which dog food is the most suitable and healthiest for your Australian Shepherd, there seems to be no more problems, right? Just put the right amount in the bowl and that’s it. But things are not that simple. Dog food should be given according to certain rules. Only then food performs its function and will be a source of energy, health and longevity.
When choosing food for puppies, it is important to pay attention that it contains only high-quality ingredients that ensure a sufficient amount of protein, which is very important for a growing dog. For a dog to grow smoothly and have enough energy, it is important that he gets enough fat with food. It is recommended to choose the first dry food very carefully. Food should contain products of animal origin, which ensure the maximum amount of required protein.
10 Rules On How To Give Food Properly For Your Australian Shepherd
- Food for Australian Shepherd – at least twice a day
An adult Australian Shepherd needs food twice a day. Growing puppies, meanwhile, eat smaller portions and should be fed four times a day. If a dog has digestive problems or a sensitive stomach, also would be better to feed him more often in a small portions instead of two larger meals.
- Look at the meals individually
Most often on the dog‘s food package you can find the daily feeding rate according to the size, age or weight of the dog. However, these instructions are both approximate and may vary in breed and activity. Energy needs also vary depending on age, health and reproductive status. You can adjust the feeding rates even according to the air temperature if the dog spends a lot of time outdoors.
Determining what exact amount of food is needed can be more of an art than a science. Look at the recommended feeding rate as a tip and adjust based on your experience. The truth is that you know your dog best. If you have doubts, remember that it is always better to feed a little less than to overfeed your dog.
- Feeding time
Some people believe that dog food should be given at the same time each day. However, this is not as important as many dog owners think. Wild dogs and wolves feed under natural conditions at really irregular intervals. This way you can only unnecessarily push yourself into tight frames.
Adult dogs can even benefit from not getting food one day a week. It mimics the natural rhythm in the wild. However, such fasting should be avoided for puppies, sick or overweight dogs.
- Dog food should be at room temperature
If you feed your Australian Shepherd with a dry dog food – then it is not a problem. However, when feeding fish or meat stored in the refrigerator, keep in mind that it should be kept at room temperature for some time. Cold canned food is not so suitable for sensitive dogs and can cause indigestion or even vomiting.
- Follow hygiene
Drinking water should always be fresh and food bowls should be washed after meals. Hygiene is especially important if you are eating raw, fresh food. Carefully store the meat in the kitchen and remember to clean the area where the dog is fed. Make sure the dog does not carry meat around the house. Protect yourself from the spread of dangerous bacteria.
- Dog food should be the same every day
While humans love variety and handle different dishes perfectly, dog food is something else entirely. If dog‘s food needs to be replaced with another for some reason, this should be done gradually to get the dog‘s gut microflora to get used to. Also, one dog‘s gut may be more sensitive than another. Suddenly altered dog food can be a cause of stomach upset and diarrhea.
- It is necessary to feed in a quiet environment
Always keep the dog bowl in the same place.
It is always advisable not to disturb the dog from eating. The most common cause of dog biting at home is disturbance while he is eating. Therefore, when training your dog, allow him to get used to the bowl to pick up food and give it back.
- Water is always needed
A bowl of fresh water should be available to the dog at all times.
- Do not let the dog swallow the food quickly
If your dog is a fast eater and the food disappears from the bowl as soon as you put it in, most likely the dog with the food will suck in a lot of air as well. This can be a cause of stomach and digestive disorders. On of the simplest ways to avoid fast swallowing is to put a larger object in a bowl to make it harder to reach the food. If you suspect that a dog is swallowing food quickly due to competition from other dogs, then it would be best to feed them in separate rooms.
- Don‘t overdo it with delicacies
Let the delicacies be just a well-deserved reward, not a constant delight.
Be careful with leftovers from the table. Never give your dog your food, especially if it is salty or high in spices. If you have unsalted meat or fish leftovers, then it may not be a big deal. However, if you are in doubt, it is better to just throw away the leftovers. And treated bones can also hurt your pet, so keep this in mind.
Final Thoughts
If it is still difficult to decide and choose which food is most suitable for your Australian Shepherd and how to feed it, it is best to consult with animal care professionals. In specialized pet stores, you can always consult with specialists who will help you choose foot that suits best for your pet‘s needs, depending on your dog‘s age, activity and health condition.