Choosing the best for your dog

As a dog owner you want your dog to be healthy. Part of this is feeding a balanced diet. With so much choice on what to feed your dog, it can be hard to decide what’s best. One option that has a multitude of health benefits is fish.

Fish is not only tasty, but contains beneficial vitamins and minerals as well as being an excellent source of easily digestible protein and Omega 3 fatty acids. So how does this help your dog?

Protein is an essential part of any diet and fish is an excellent source of this. Proteins are the building blocks of life and perform a wide variety of functions within the body. In turn, amino acids are the building blocks of proteins and are necessary for good health. Some are created by the body but others need to be obtained from food. These ‘essential amino acids’ are found in meat, fish, eggs and dairy and help build muscle; fix tissue in tendons, ligaments and cartilages; maintain healthy skin and fur; and improve digestion.

Fish is also a great source of healthy dietary fats that are enriched with essential fatty acids, vital in a well balanced diet. Omega-3 is an essential fatty acid present in fish which helps maintain healthy joints and tendons, keeping your dog active throughout its life. Omega-3 is also beneficial in treating arthritis and other joint problems. And for dogs with skin conditions, Omega 3 helps reduce any itchiness, rashes or skin irritation making your dog feel much happier. Omega 3 also appears to be important for brain development and function and may even be good for heart health.

Fish such as herring and cod are excellent sources of vitamin A, known as retinol, which helps promote good vision in low light. It also helps maintain healthy skin, including the lining of the nose which is essential in your dog’s excellent sense of smell. Vitamin A helps keep your dog’s immune system in tip top working order, helping it fight off illness and infection. Vitamin D is also essential to your dog’s wellbeing, with fish like herring and sprats a good source. This vitamin helps the body absorb calcium which is essential in strong bones throughout your dog’s life.

By simply adding some fish to your dog’s diet, they will gain a raft of health benefits helping keep them in top condition and health throughout their life.