If you have a golden retriever, you made a great choice. These are beautiful, intelligent dogs. They have such kind-looking faces and always appear to be smiling. They are large and strong dogs. However, what do golden retrievers eat?
You want to make sure that you give your dog the best food packed with all the nutrients that are good for them to be healthy and have good skin and coats. You can always speak to your vet for recommendations. These golden retriever puppies need a lot of exercises, so giving the right food at various stages of their life is important.
Let’s look at some of the food you can give your golden retriever.
1. Talk to your vet
Speak to your vet before you dash off and get any food for your golden retriever. Many things depend on what you need to feed them. For example, you have to consider their age, health, necessary supplements, etc. Your vet can make the right recommendation based on health, age and other factors.
Your vet can give you a feeding chart, which you can easily stick to. This can include caloric intake and other important information to keep your dog healthy.
Even some treats may not be appropriate, so work closely with your vet. Sometimes, you may need to make adjustments or even change the frequency they eat.
2. Feed wet food
A young golden retriever may be better off eating wet food initially. These are young dogs weaning off mummy’s milk, so the adjustment may suit them. If your dog is older or has problems chewing their food, wet food is good. They will get the moisture and nutrients that they need.
Some picky dogs also may prefer wet food. While wet foods can have many advantages, the one problem is that they are more expensive. If you feed your dog wet food (or dry, but mostly if it is wet), make sure you brush their teeth. Wet food can stick and cause dental issues.
Get your dog used to having their teeth brushed. This is important for optimal health. They can avoid or delay major health problems, so make sure you brush their teeth.
3. Dry food
Dry food is less expensive, so most people offer their dogs dry food. Always make sure that your dog has access to fresh, clean water. Change their water 2 or 3 times a day. The advantage of dry food is that it has a longer shelf life. It also tends not to spoil, especially if your dog does not eat immediately.
You can do (and speak to your vet) to offer smaller portions of dry food several times a day. This may be better for them instead of eating one large meal. Ask your vet to recommend good dry food for your golden retriever. Some vet clinics have a supply of dog food, so you can pick it up right from your vet.
4. Essential nutrients
The nutrients your dog should consume depend on various factors such as age, activity level, etc. Again, the best source for this information is your vet. Depending on these various factors, you can plan how much to feed them and the right essential nutrients they receive.
Check if the percentage of crude fat, proteins, and other nutrients are correct. For example, crude fat can be around 17 percent, crude fibre around 4 percent, crude protein around 29 percent, and water content can be around 50 percent.
Also, check to see if the food contains omega fatty acids. Omega-6 fatty acids can be about 3.25 percent and omega-3 fatty acids around 2 percent. Your dog also needs carbohydrates. However, how much depends on size, age, activity level, etc.
Find out how much is the right amount for your dog because it helps with glucose formation. This is good for their brain activity. It also provides them with energy.
5. Protein for golden retrievers
If you have an active golden retriever, they will need protein to repair muscles and tissues, especially if they hurt themselves. This can help to keep them strong. Proteins also play a role in healthy hair and skin, plus they are important for producing certain hormones and enzymes.
6. Vitamins & minerals
Vitamins, especially for a young, growing dog, are important. Ensure they get vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and K. Minerals important for your dog include zinc, potassium, iron, sodium, phosphorus, magnesium and calcium. Minerals can help with the production of certain hormones as well.
So, what do golden retrievers eat? A few things include sweet potato, chicken, beef, eggs, fish, liver, spinach, carrots, fish oil and brown rice. However, speak to your vet to get the best meal plan for your golden retriever.