A: The diet you select for your dog may affect not only his health but also his behavior. A well-balanced, biologically appropriate dog food can actually improve behavior, by decreasing your dog’s stress level, helping him be calmer and more relaxed. By providing the proper nutrition his body needs, your dog will have less of a tendency to exhibit unwanted behaviors.
Most animal nutritionists agree that a well-balanced, healthy canine diet should contain only high-quality ingredients, with no extras like food coloring, unspecified animal by-product or chemical preservatives.
Be sure to talk with your veterinarian first! Your dog’s age, breed, activity level, metabolism and health needs mean he might need a completely different food than your neighbor’s dog. A higher quality food generally means a healthier dog and thus fewer visits to the veterinarian throughout the dog’s life.
A good quality dog food should have:
- Protein to boost your dog’s energy and regenerate his muscles – complete proteins are animal based and include meat, poultry, fish and eggs; the best quality food uses one primary source of protein, for example, “chicken” not “poultry,” “beef” not “meat.”
- Carbohydrates provide the fuel that keeps your dog going. However, some dogs do not tolerate a higher amount of carbs from grains, and can develop allergies or display signs of protein deficiency.
- Fiber for dogs in necessary to aid digestion. Too much fiber, though, can cause loose stools or diarrhea, while too little can lead to constipation or dry hard stools. In general, high-fiber foods are not good for dogs with high energy requirements, such as puppies and working dogs.
- Fats give your dog energy, healthy skin and coat, and provide the body with insulation and protection for internal organs. Omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids are sometimes given as supplements to help prevent inflammation, arthritis and dry skin.
- Vitamins and minerals are nutrients that every living body requires for normal growth and development. Dogs need a precise balance of vitamins and minerals for optimal health.
Without the right balance of protein, carbohydrates, fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, dogs of all breeds and ages can experience behavioral issues such as:
- Counter-surfing – stealing food from a counter or tabletop
- Aggression over food, treats or toys
- Digging and escaping – to look for missing nutrients
- Pica – eating dirt or other inappropriate items
- Getting into the garbage
- Coprophagia – eating feces
- Over-exuberance, hyperactivity, or agitation
Talk to your vet to find out what the best brands and formulas are for your dog.
Don’t forget that there are three more essential nutrients that every dog needs for a long and healthy life:
The right food, along with water, exercise, training, and love, are all part of your dog’s good health AND good behavior.