Distinguishing Dog Nutritional Deficiencies: Key Signs
The Appearance of Dogs
When assessing a dog's appearance, one can initially touch the animal to gauge its nutritional status. A poorly nourished dog may reveal ribs easily, with minimal subcutaneous fat and a distinctly palpable tail bone.
Compared to dogs of the same age, these animals may have a smaller or lighter build, and they are more susceptible to skeletal diseases caused by metabolic disorders involving minerals and vitamins.
Prone to Illnesses
If a dog frequently exhibits minor ailments such as dental problems, skin issues, or colds, it may indicate that its immune system has been compromised due to inadequate nutrition.
Skin Problems
Nutritional deficiencies can lead to skin conditions in dogs, particularly during the growth of their fur. This is because sufficient protein, vitamins, and other nutrients are essential during this period.
Causes of Nutritional Deficiencies
The primary cause of nutritional deficiencies in dogs is often related to their diet. To address this, it's important to start by altering the diet structure. Avoid feeding your dog a monotonous diet of kibble. The first step is to switch to a brand of dog food that offers better taste, richer nutrition, and finer quality. On top of this, dog owners should consider preparing homemade meals that include ingredients like chicken breast, fish, and fruits and vegetables to boost nutritional intake.
Parasite Infections
If a dog is infected with intestinal parasites, these parasites can survive by consuming the dog's nutrients. Even if the dog is fed a balanced diet of commercial dog food, it may still suffer from malnutrition. Owners should take steps to avoid feeding their dogs raw or uncleaned food and should regularly deworm their pets to prevent most intestinal parasites.
