subject: Nutrition for the Professional Dog [print this page] Nutrition for the Professional Dog Nutrition for the Professional Dog
Working dogs of any breed are very special. They perform a job for us without asking much in return. Working dogs can be hunting dogs, guard dogs for livestock, military dogs, police dogs, assistance dogs, search and rescue dogs and many others. An extremely wide variety of breeds may be used for various "jobs". Drug sniffing Beagles or German Shepherds are seen in many airports around the world. These two breeds are about as different as they come! Many of these dogs have natural instinct for the work because of their breeding and environment but all of them require intensive training that is costly in time and money.
Just like human athletes, nutrition is very important to these canine athletes. A dog that is not receiving ideal nutrition will be unable to perform adequately. More than just the amount of time that a dog is working becomes important when determining what and how much a dog should eat. Factors such as bad weather, dogs that hunt in the water, and ground conditions can all put additional strain on a dog's body. A highly digestible formula is very important, with the digestibility of the fat being the most important. Chicken fat is a highly digestible fat source that is ideal for working dogs.
Diet should be changed to a performance formula at least 3 weeks prior to the start of the season, but ideally sooner would be better. Conditioning should also start at the same time (after the transition of diets). Dogs suffer more from the effects of being under-conditioned than they do from the effects of hot, humid temperatures. Of course, when starting to work in hot weather, make sure to allow your dog frequent rests and carry adequate water supplies (squirt bottles work well) to give him frequent drinks.
As far as the best time to feed your dog or dogs, you have to figure out what works best for you. Many people choose to feed working dogs one time daily. Feeding at least 4 hours prior to exercise, and about an hour after exercise is completed is recommended. For dogs that are working under intense conditions, feeding 24 hours prior to exercise is recommended. Breeds that are prone to bloat, such as Labrador Retrievers might be better served by two feedings per day and longer times between feeding and exercise. Dogs that will be out working all day, especially in harsh conditions, should have frequent rest periods and snacks should be given. Small meals (10% of total daily ration) are one option for the rest period.
While a veterinary check-up is required to obtain a health certificate for traveling, it might be best to make your main check-up appointment prior to beginning the training. Making sure that your dog is in good health prior to starting an exercise program will optimize your results.
Heartworm prevention year round is a good idea for all dogs, but especially for dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors. There are many options and you can choose the best one for you and your dog.
Special equipment such as jackets, vests, and boots might also help your dog avoid injury in harsh conditions.
Above all, be smart. You wouldn't go out and run a marathon without training. Don't expect your dog to do this either. Good nutrition and regular veterinary care will keep your canine athlete in peak condition.
Learn more about pet nutrition at http://www.drs4pets.com
