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Small-Breed Dog’s Nutritional Needs
Small-Breed Dog’s Nutritional Needs

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Small-Breed Dog’s Nutritional Needs

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Not all small dogs have the same nutritional needs. Giving your dog a food specially formulated for her size and activity level is the easiest way to make sure you’re providing complete and balanced nutrition. Here’s how to provide the right nutrition for your small dog.

 

How to Select a Food for Your Small-breed Dog

Small adult dogs require a food that offers complete nutrients essential for health and vitality. Here’s what to look for:

  • Vitamin-rich fish oils for a healthy skin, a shiny coat and overall health
  • Essential vitamins and minerals to help support the immune system and help maintain good health
  • High-quality animal-based protein sources to help maintain muscles
  • A fiber source to promote intestinal health, enhance nutrient absorption and reduce backyard cleanup
  • A special carbohydrate blend of select healthy grains to help maintain normal blood sugar levels for sustained energy

These ingredients are the keys to nutrition whether you feed dry or wet dog food or give your dog treats.

 

Dietary Considerations for Small-Breed Dogs

Small dogs have small mouths and stomachs. You may want to feed your dog a formula with a small bite size for easy chewing. A nutrient-dense food will help make sure she’s absorbing essential nutrients even though her stomach can only accommodate what seems like a small volume of food.

 

When choosing a food for your small-breed dog, also ask:

  • Has she been spayed, is she not getting enough exercise or is she overweight?
  • Is she about to have puppies?
  • Is she considered mature or senior (7 years or older)?

Special conditions like these dramatically affect your dog’s nutritional demands.

 

Controlling Your Small Dog’s Weight

Less-active dogs and dogs who have been neutered or spayed are prone to weight gain. Controlling your dog’s weight is an important step toward protecting against complications of excess weight, such as diabetes or joint health problems. If you use a weight-control food, look for these ingredients:

  • A reduced fat level that still offers essential nutrients for skin and coat health
  • L-carnitine, a key nutrient that helps burn fat during weight loss
  • Special carbohydrate blends that help maintain energy while managing weight
  • Vitamin-rich fish oils for overall health

 

Providing Nutrition for Pregnant Small-Breed Dogs

Starting in the seventh week of her pregnancy, a mother dog will need to increase her energy intake up to 50% by the time she gives birth and increase it even more when she starts nursing her puppies. Because she may lose her appetite at times, it’s important that she eats a nutrient-dense food. A complete, balanced small-breed puppy formula can give her the extra nutrients she needs.

 

Switching to a Mature Diet

Unlike larger dogs that are considered mature at age 5, your small dog can remain on an adult diet until age 7. In fact, small-breed dogs tend to live longer and don’t experience age-related changes as early as bigger dogs. However, it is important to make a proactive transition to a specially formulated mature diet, such as IAMS™ ProActive Health™ Mature Adult Small & Toy Breed, so you can help keep your dog healthy and active for years to come.

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  • Signs and Symptoms of Upset Stomach in Dogs
    Signs and Symptoms of Upset Stomach in Dogs
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    Signs and Symptoms of Upset Stomach in Dogs

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    It is a sight no dog owner wants to see – your beloved pet heaving and uncomfortable, its body racked with nausea. For many, the sound of a dog vomiting sets off alarm bells. But why do dogs vomit, and what causes an upset stomach in dogs? More importantly, when is a dog's upset stomach merely a passing concern, and when does it indicate a more serious issue? Let's delve into these questions to better understand our four-legged friends' health.


    What causes vomiting in dogs?

    Vomiting in dogs is a common occurrence and can be triggered by various factors. This process involves the forceful ejection of the contents within a dog's stomach or upper intestine. This action is often preceded by signs of nausea, such as drooling, licking lips, and swallowing excessively. Sometimes, the cause of vomiting is fairly benign – your dog may have just eaten too quickly or consumed something that didn't agree with its stomach. In other instances, it could be a sign of something more serious, such as ingestion of a toxic substance or a serious illness.


    The reasons behind a dog's upset stomach are varied and can range from mild to severe. Upset stomach, medically termed as gastroenteritis, is caused by inflammation or irritation in the stomach or intestines. This can be triggered by a sudden change in diet, food intolerances, ingestion of foreign substances, bacterial or viral infections, and even serious conditions like pancreatitis or kidney failure. 


    One common mistake dog parents make is confusing vomiting with regurgitation. When a dog regurgitates, it's typically soon after eating and is a passive process, where undigested food comes up without much effort. On the other hand, vomiting involves active abdominal contractions and results in the expulsion of partially digested food mixed with bile.


    Symptoms of an upset stomach in dogs

    Any dog owner knows that an upset stomach can leave their furry friend feeling less than their best. Recognising the signs of an upset stomach can help in providing prompt care and relief for your pet. Typical symptoms include:

    • Drooling
    • Chattering teeth
    • Lip smacking and excessive licking

    More serious signs include:

    • Vomiting
    • Belching
    • Passing gas
    • Diarrhoea
    • Increase in bowel movements.

    If your dog appears to be in pain, loses appetite, shows signs of dehydration, has a fever, or exhibits unusual behaviours such as lethargy, restlessness, or shivering, it's a clear indication that something is wrong.


    In extreme cases, an upset stomach can result in weight loss and frequent vomiting in dogs, which can be a sign of serious medical conditions such as liver or kidney disease, pancreatitis, or even cancer. It is also important to monitor stress in your dog, as this can often exacerbate or trigger stomach issues.


    How to treat an upset stomach in dogs

    When it comes to treating a dog's upset stomach, the appropriate treatment will largely depend on the underlying cause. If it's a mild case, such as a dietary change or eating too quickly, simple home remedies might be sufficient. However, if the condition persists or is associated with other serious symptoms, it's essential to consult with a vet.


    Some common dog vomiting treatments are:

    • Adjusting the feeding schedule
    • Offering bland, easily digestible food
    • Hydration is key, so ensure your dog always has access to fresh water
    • Over the counter medications can also help, but always consult with your vet before administering any medication to your pet

    The best remedies for your dog’s upset stomach are probiotics such as IAMS™ Proactive Health™ Digestive Health Supplement and pumpkin, which can aid digestion. However, it's essential to remember that these are not cures but temporary solutions. If your dog continues to vomit or display signs of an upset stomach, a trip to the vet is necessary.


    It's essential to remember that while some instances of dog vomiting or upset stomach can be managed at home, more frequent or severe symptoms necessitate a visit to the vet. Early detection of symptoms can make a significant difference in your dog's health. If your dog vomits multiple times in a day, shows no signs of improvement after 24 hours, or frequently throws up mucus, it's time to take your pet to the vet. The age and overall health of your dog also play a crucial role in this decision.


    While home-cooked foods like skinless chicken, boiled potatoes, or rice can be good short-term options for a dog with an upset stomach, they are not nutritionally complete for long-term care. It's also crucial to avoid feeding your dog raw food, which can contain harmful germs like salmonella. Always follow your vet's recommendations to ensure your dog's health and safety.


    In addition to following your vet's advice, consider integrating a digestive health supplement into your dog's diet. IAMS™ Proactive Health™ Digestive Health Supplement is a soft, chewable supplement that combines prebiotics and probiotics to regulate your dog's gut health. It contains no artificial colour, flavour, preservatives, or fillers, making it a safe and effective choice for enhancing your dog's digestive health. 


    Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatments of dog vomiting and upset stomach, and consulting with a vet, when necessary, can help ensure your furry friend's well-being. Remember, their health is in your hands.