Statistics shows that millions of dollars are spent on pet food every year. The market is flooded with various products claiming to be fully balanced and nutritionally complete for every dog breed. However, the slogans are often confusing and contradictory, so what is written on a food package does not always correspond to its content. The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) has issued a standard of diet stating proportions of different components to be included in a healthy pet diet. Yet again, research shows that what can be right for one dog breed is at the same time dangerous poison for another dog breed.
The matter is, different dog breeds were developed in diverse climatic conditions and used for different purposes. Some dog breeds are heavy shedders and need more coat producing nutrients, other dog breeds are very energetic so should receive more caloric food and bone building stuff. Two dogs of the same weight can have absolutely different eating requirements, as need for nutritional support for all dog breeds is different, as well as energy levels, etc.
It's not only about the amount of food that you give: many other factors are involved. Each and every dog breed has physical and temperamental qualities distinguishing it from other dog breeds. Compare Hound Dog Breeds and Terrier Dog Breeds, Herding Dog Breeds and Working Dog Breeds and you will see that their lifestyle is different.
The set of requirements for nutrition of every dog breed has been developed and preserved over centuries and generations just like the dog breeds' appearance and character have been. Some dog breeds have inherited allergies or diseases that restrict their food ratio.
Do not give your pet table scraps as supplements and preservatives can cause problems with digestion in dogs. On the other hand, don't forget that quality of dry food depends directly on its cost: premium-class brands use ingredients of better quality.
Another issue to be considered is diet for puppies, who due to the rapid growth need almost two times more nutrients per pound/kilo of food than adult dogs do.
Pay due attention to your pet's nutrition, consult a vet, try to have a schedule and make meals regular, make sure there's enough fresh water in the dog's bowl and ensure there's no exercise right after food intake.
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