Special diets: Nutrition for small hunting dogs

When it comes to the nutrition of small hunting dogs, customised diets are an important key to health and well-being. These energetic little hunters have special needs and different health requirements that need to be met by specially customised diet plans. Whether hypoallergenic, low fat or high protein, the right diet can make a significant difference. In this article, we highlight the most important aspects of special diets for small hunting dogs and offer insights into the perfect diet for our brave, furry friends.

Why special nutrition for small hunting dogs?

Small hunting dogs are real bundles of energy and that is exactly what makes them so special. They need specific nutritional ingredients to fulfil their unique needs. But why is that? Here are some interesting facts and reasons:

• High energy requirement: Small hunting dogs are active all day long, running, jumping and sniffing - that uses up a lot of energy.
• Special health requirements: Many hunting dogs are prone to allergies or certain health problems such as joint problems.
• Optimum digestion: A special diet can help to improve digestion and minimise problems such as flatulence or diarrhoea.

Hypoallergenic diets for sensitive dogs

Allergies in dogs can manifest themselves in different ways - from skin problems and digestive disorders to behavioural changes. Small hunting dogs in particular are often sensitive to certain food components. Hypoallergenic diets are the solution here.

• Protein sources vary: Certain proteins often cause allergies. Hypoallergenic diets focus on rare proteins such as duck or fish.
• Without cereals: Many allergies are triggered by grains. Grain-free diet plans offer alternatives such as sweet potatoes or peas.
• Natural ingredients: The best hypoallergenic diets use natural ingredients without artificial additives or fillers.

Low-fat diets for overweight and older hunting dogs

Being overweight is not just an aesthetic problem for small hunting dogs - it can have serious health consequences, such as cardiovascular problems and joint problems. This is why a low-fat diet is often necessary.

• Maintain ideal weight: A low-calorie diet helps to control weight and reduce excess fat.
• Healthy fats: Not all fats are bad. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, found in fish oil, promote healthy skin and coat.
• Fibre and protein: High-fibre foods and high-quality proteins ensure a long-lasting feeling of satiety and support muscle building.

High-protein diets for active hunting dogs

Small hunting dogs need a high-protein diet to strengthen their muscles and maintain their Energy level high. But not all proteins are the same. A targeted selection and balance are crucial.

• High-quality protein sources: Meat, fish, eggs and pulses are excellent sources of protein.
• Optimum growth and muscle development: Proteins are essential for building muscle and repairing tissue, which is particularly important for active hunting dogs.
• Digestible proteins: It is important that the proteins are easily digestible in order to avoid intolerances.

Homemade diets vs. commercial food

The question of whether to opt for homemade diets or commercial food often depends on the dog's specific needs and preferences. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages.

Homemade diets:

• + Provides full control over ingredients and quality
• + Can be specially adapted to the dog's needs
• - Time-consuming and requires extensive knowledge of proper nutrition

Commercial food:

• + Convenient and easy to prepare
• + Often balanced and specially formulated for specific health requirements
• - Quality and ingredients may vary; not always fully transparent

Practical tips for changing your diet

Changing your dog's diet can be a challenge for you and your small hunting dog, but it is necessary to ensure that your dog gets the most out of his special diet. Here are some useful tips:

1. Slow transition: Introduce the new food slowly by mixing it with the old food over 7-10 days and gradually increasing the proportion of the new food.
2. Observe the reaction: Pay attention to changes in behaviour, coat health and digestion. Positive or negative reactions can tell you a lot about the tolerance of the new diet.
3. Regular visits to the vet: Consult your vet to ensure that the diet supports your dog's health and that it receives all the nutrients it needs.

The importance of hydration

An often neglected aspect of nutrition is hydration. Small hunting dogs that are active all day need an adequate supply of water to stay hydrated.

• Fresh water: Always provide fresh drinking water. The water bowl should be cleaned and refilled daily.
• Moisture in the lining: Wet food can help to cover additional water requirements, especially for dogs that tend not to drink enough.

Summary: Optimal nutrition, healthy hunting

The right diet is crucial for the health, performance and vitality of small hunting dogs. A variety of specialised diets are available to meet individual needs - be it hypoallergenic, low-fat or high-protein. With a well thought-out diet plan, lots of love and attention, you can give your small hunting dog a happy, active life. Remember, a customised diet is more than just food - it's the key to a healthy and long life by your side.

So, get stuck in and look after your four-legged friend - he'll thank you with unforgettable adventures and boundless loyalty!

FAQs

How do I reduce my dog's weight?

Tips: How your dog can lose weight healthily

• Gradually reduce the daily amount of food.
• Focus on low-calorie and high-fibre foods.
• Ensure regular exercise and play sessions.
• Avoid table scraps and snacks in addition to the main food.
• Consult your vet for a customised diet plan.

What do I feed my dog to help him lose weight?

Which dog food is best for losing weight?

• CRD-1 Weight Reduction dog food
• Hills Canine Metabolic with chicken tinned food for dogs
• Hills Canine Metabolic dry food for dogs
• Royal Canin Satiety Weight Management dry food for dogs
• Royal Canin Satiety Small Dogs dry food

How does Martin Rütter feed his dogs?

To say it up front: I have been feeding my own dogs raw meat, high-quality oils, pureed vegetables and herbs for years. This form of nutrition is called BARF (Biologically Appropriate Feeding). Raw feeding). This food is very good for my own dogs.

What can a small dog eat?

What foods are dogs allowed to eat?

• Apple
• Pineapple (do not feed together with milk production)
• Banana (note: a little more substantial)
• Berries such as blackberries, strawberries, raspberries or redcurrants
• Pear
• Figs (it is best to scrape the flesh out of the skin)
• Mango
• Melon