Active dog food: how to choose the best high-energy dog food

What defines an active dog?

An active dog is not simply one that takes two walks a day. We are talking about animals that engage in moderate to intense physical activity for more than an hour a day.

What an active dog's food should contain

The feed for active dogs must provide available energy in an efficient way:

• Crude protein: minimum 28-32 %. Protein of animal origin should be at the top of the list.
• Crude fat: between 15-20 %. Fat provides twice as much energy as carbohydrates.
• Low glycemic load carbohydrates: sweet potato, peas or brown rice.
• Omega-3 (EPA/DHA): natural anti-inflammatory.
• Glucosamine and chondroitin: protect cartilage.
• B group vitamins, E and zinc.

Common mistakes when feeding active dogs

Many owners make the same mistakes:

• Use the same feed as for a sedentary dog.
• Feed just before exercise.
• Ignoring hydration.
• Do not adjust the ration according to the season.
• Change feed all at once.

How to transition to high-energy feed

If your dog is about to start a season of increased activity, introduce the new food gradually over ten days.