How to Choose the Best Dog Food for Pugs
The comical Pug is a charming little fellow. Cuddly, adorable, and lots of fun; the jolly, little Pug has relatively low activity requirements but still requires a high-quality diet to fuel its daily energy.
Pugs can be prone to skin issues. Though these can be related to food allergens, they are often environmental in nature. If you are concerned your pug may be suffering from a food allergy or sensitivity, it’s best to speak to a veterinarian who can prescribe a hypoallergenic diet made from novel protein and carbohydrate sources or hydrolyzed protein.
Another issue that can be common to the Pug is a tendency towards obesity. To prevent this from occurring, owners should carefully measure the best dog food for Pugs and monitor all intake. This is the key to keeping the Pug’s weight under control. Free feeding is strongly discouraged as the Pug will overeat whenever the occasion presents itself.
Choosing the Correct Calorie Count for Pugs
Adult Pugs that are moderately active require approximately 500 calories of the best Pug dog food each day. The individual calorie count will vary depending on factors like activity level and whether the dog is spayed and neutered. The Pet Nutrition Alliance calorie calculator is an excellent guide but remember to consult your veterinarian for more detailed nutritional information.
It is recommended that the total amount of food be divided into three to four meals that are fed throughout the day. This helps to keep hunger at bay.
The Pug greatly benefits from a diet that is high in excellent quality proteins and healthy fats. 18 percent protein, at a minimum, is best with 5 percent of fat the lowest amount a diet suitable for the Pug should contain.
Dietary Requirements for Pug Dog Foods
One of the primary ingredients in any diet suited to the needs of a Pug should be an animal-based protein. Whole meats from lean sources are preferred; however, meat meals can also provide all of the nutrition the Pug needs to thrive.
Carbohydrates form an important part of a healthy diet for the Pug. Pugs that suffer from skin problems may require a hypoallergenic diet but this should always be discussed with a veterinarian. The main concern with carbohydrates in the diet for most Pugs is that they are easy to digest and provide sufficient amounts of dietary fiber.
Healthy fats provide the Pug with energy and also promote the development of healthy skin and coat. Fats are best obtained from animal origins and can include such ingredients as oily fish like sardines, mackerel, anchovies, or salmon. Certain plant-based oils may also be a good source of omega 3 and 6 fatty acids.
Things to Look for in the Best Dog Food for Pugs
Here is a basic list of the most important things to look for in the best food for a Pug:
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Whole proteins heading up the ingredients list
One of the primary ingredients in any diet for the Pug should be protein from animal origins. Whole meats are preferred, but meat meals are also an excellent basis for a healthy diet.
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Enriched with helpful supplements
Any diet for the Pug can benefit from the addition of helpful supplements. The most desirable ones to look for include glucosamine, chondroitin, prebiotics, and probiotics.
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Meets AAFCO nutritional requirements for a complete and balanced food
All foods appropriate for the Pug should bear the AAFCO seal of approval, indicating it meets the standards for a complete and balanced food.