The Best Dog Bowls

The Dog Bowls Superbowl

How do you make your dog a winner? Create a game plan with plenty of love, attention and exercise, and be sure to feed him right! You are the coach, so your furried friend relies upon you to be his mentor and to feed him what he needs to be a champion.

Just like with humans, canine nutrition is not a one-size-fits-all playbook. For example, depending upon the size, breed, age and health issues of your little player, you’ll need to create a strategy for his diet that is tailored just for him.

The Pee-Wee Player:
A puppy has a quick metabolism and a very high energy level, and as such, needs more calories and a diet that includes a high fat concentration. Although you should still stick to a set feeding schedule (i.e. don’t let your pup eat whatever he wants, whenever he wants it), it is important to understand a puppy’s unique needs. Dog bowls with non-slip, non-tip design are best, and if your dog is a chewer, avoid plastic dog bowls. It is also important to remember that a puppy also has a small bladder and small, weak muscles, so he will not be able to hold his excretions as long as an older dog.

The Free Agent Player:
A dog can typically move to “adult” food after he reaches one year old. Be sure to read dog food labels and consult with your vet regarding the feeding times and amounts for your dog.

The Hall Of Fame Player:
A very active dog needs a lot of protein and fat for energy. Diets high in protein and fat are typically best for working dogs and show dogs. Specially formulated dog foods are available. Keep in mind that high levels of protein and fat can cause problems for dogs that are not extremely active, so be sure the diet plan is right for your dog’s lifestyle.

The Veteran Player:
A senior dog (typically one who has reached the last third of his normal life expectancy) needs less fat and more fiber. Similar to humans, older age in dogs typically means a more sedentary lifestyle and an increased risk of weight gain. It is important for dogs to feel full without eating heavy or fatty meals. In addition, older dogs tend to have more teeth problems; consider using smaller or softer kibble. In addition, elevated dog bowls can help reduce neck strain and make things easier for an arthritic dog.

Timeout! Remember that several foods are perfectly safe for humans, but for dogs, can be very harmful, and potentially fatal. Never feed your dog chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, macadamia nuts, or mushrooms. In addition, never give your dog alcohol, coffee, tea, or caffeine. Many of these foods and beverages contain toxins that can cause a coma or kill a dog, especially for smaller breeds. Think twice when you put food in that dog bowl; it may save your friend from serious health problems.

Wash food and water dog bowls often. Let the waterboy know to keep fresh water available at all times, and during hotter weather, monitor water levels and temperature frequently. Change water at least once daily, and if the dog drools a lot, change several times per day; dog bowls should be rinsed each time they are refilled.

Now, a coach’s life is a busy one, so if you need to manage the clock, consider automatic dog bowl feeders which distribute food automatically, while keeping food fresh within an attached storage bin. Similarly, automatic waterers and fountains offer a variety of sizes, styles, and filtration methods.

Provide your dog with a balanced diet and a sensible exercise routine throughout his entire life. He’ll be your biggest fan, and you’ll be the MVP!