The diet culture of dogs and humans is different. Humans are omnivores, while dogs are originally carnivores. Because the ancestors of dogs didn't have things like cookies, pudding, chocolate, beef jerky, etc., they only enjoyed animal meat, and occasionally ate grass and so on... So for unfortunate dogs with poor absorbency, they need to eat extra to satisfy their hunger.
1. Eating habits
Havanese dogs have no particular eating etiquette. They tear big chunks of meat with their sharp teeth and front paws, chew a few times and then swallow it whole. The purpose of their eating is simple, just to survive and to fight for food. Therefore, they eat fast, which increases their chances of survival in the wild.
2. The aftermath of domestication
After dogs are domesticated, they can no longer find food on their own. All their living needs are taken care of by their owners or servants, naturally adapting to the omnivorous diet of humans. In addition to being well-fed with three meals a day, they are constantly supplied with snacks such as afternoon tea, cheese-flavored biscuits, cookies, soft beef jerky, soda, etc. It's not surprising that almost one out of every three dogs is overweight. When they are young, overweight dogs can still eat and drink well with shiny fur and smooth skin. But as they age, the aftermath gradually shows up. First, there is obesity, then the lack of luster in the coat, followed by decreased appetite, hair loss, diarrhea, liver disease, heart disease, osteoporosis, diabetes, hypertension, and finally they pass away.
3. Nutritional needs of dogs
Each dog has different nutritional needs at different stages of growth. To maintain the health of dogs, it is necessary to ensure an adequate intake of various nutrients to achieve a balanced diet, including meat, fish, milk, eggs, grains, and appropriate amounts of vitamins and minerals. With a balanced diet, dogs will naturally have full muscles, healthy bones, and shiny skin and fur.
(1) Meat
Meat provides the necessary elements for bone growth and cell tissue regeneration, and also promotes metabolism. However, just eating meat is not enough to meet the body's needs, so meat, which is rich in protein, should not exceed half of the dog's diet.
(2) Fat
The fats in meat and plants provide the fatty acids necessary for various aspects of a dog's body, which can keep the skin and hair healthy and beautiful.
(3) Carbohydrates
The other nutrients that dogs need on a daily basis should come from carbohydrates, such as grain foods, rice, pasta, dry dog food, and potatoes. Carbohydrates can increase the volume of dog food and help the normal peristalsis of the intestines... and the excretion will be smooth.
(4) Vitamins
Other supplementary vitamins, such as calcium tablets, vitamin tablets, bone meal, etc., can provide the required vitamins for balanced nutrition.
(5) Water
Dogs lose water every time they urinate, defecate, pant, and sweat. Water accounts for about 60% of the body weight of adult dogs, and they need to drink about 150cc of water per day. However, excessive water intake is not good either, as it will ruin the taste of food.
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