Nutrition is complex and difficult to simplify. Nutrition is the core for maintaining overall good health. Providing a quality food will save you in the long run and extend your pet's life.
Internal health Shows on the outside in skin, coat and nails. Skin should be free of abnormalities. Coat should be soft and shiny with no discoloration. Nails should be hard and strong with good growth, without breaking, chipping or cracking.
Finding a food that suits your dog may take some trial and error but it is worth the effort. There could be only one ingredient to throw them off balance, causing gastrointestinal problems, gas, yeast infections, and allergies to name a few.
Stools are an obvious indicator whether food is right for your pet. Stools should be firm, not loose, nor hard or black, which could be signs of constipation.
Feeding requirements listed on the bag by the manufacturer are usually and over-abundant measure. Feeding large amounts at one meal can cause bloating, which can be deadly.
Judging your dog's weight and exercise requirements should be your guide. Observing overall fitness and body tone without being to "ribby" or too round.
An overweight dog puts additional stress on the heart and the joints specifically, predisposing them to serious health problems if not kept in check.
