A cynologist has given advice on formulating a diet for dogs in winter
In the winter season, some dog breeders think about changing their pet's diet. Vladimir Golubev, president of the Russian Cynological Federation, told Izvestia on January 22 whether it is necessary to revise the principles of feeding a dog in cold weather and gave some advice.
"Still, nowadays, domestic dogs do not get particularly cold in winter, unlike their ancestors living on the street. In apartment conditions, pets have comfortable conditions: a warm room with heaters, and on walks clothes that protect from cold and wind. Accordingly, the metabolic processes in pets do not change as critically as before. Therefore, if the veterinarian has not foreseen it, there is no need to change something in the pet's diet," he said.
According to him, in winter, the pet owner notices that the dog moves less. She may rest more, refuse to take long walks. All this affects the physical condition. In addition, being at home, the dog may come to the bowl more often or beg for treats. Many people can not resist the questioning look of the pet and spoil him with different treats. As a result, the dog can become overweight.
As Golubev explained, if the pet does become less active in the winter, it does not need to increase the amount of food, in some cases, such dogs, on the contrary, it is cut back.
Owners of dogs that live in an enclosure will most likely need to reconsider the diet. It is important for such pets to stay warm outside. Although they live in insulated enclosures and booths, but more caloric nutrition will not hurt them, the expert emphasized. According to him, it is necessary to change the diet in advance. Before the onset of severe cold weather, it is necessary to gradually increase the caloric content of food. In addition, you can occasionally give your pet warm meat broth. In some cases, additional food supplements will be required. A specialist should tell you about their necessity.
The Russian Cynological Federation also reminded that it is important to create the most comfortable living conditions for dogs living on the street. For this purpose it is necessary to insulate the enclosure and the booth well. It is best if the design of the enclosure will be equipped with a door, behind which there will be a warm room with a booth. Around such an enclosure is usually fenced territory, on which the dog can safely walk. This type of enclosure will provide maximum protection from frost and drafts.
Earlier, on January 12, biologist Marina Tatarenko, a teacher of the Department of Teaching Methods of the Faculty of Natural Sciences of the State University of Education, said that pets should not be fed food that has been prepared for people. Such actions have serious negative consequences for the health of animals.
