Include these winter-friendly foods in your dog's diet
As the mercury drops, it is not only important for you but even for your pet dog to stay warm this season. While it is a good decision to buy them a pet-friendly sweater or jacket to sustain the chill around, their daily diet can support them more than anything. Here are some foods you should feed them in winter.
Oatmeal
A plain and properly cooked bowl of oatmeal can be a warm and filling treat for your pup as it is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. These nutrients can support your furball's coat and skin health, keeping them healthy by improving digestion and managing weight. Make sure you prepare this dish with water instead of milk as many dog species are lactose intolerant.
Stew
Your dog can relish a hearty stew made with seasonal vegetables to stay healthy in winter. Cook brown rice, drained and rinsed kidney beans, butternut squash, chopped carrots, peas, and water on low heat for five to six hours and stir. Serve warm (not hot). This stew is freezer-friendly, which means you can store it in the refrigerator, reheat it, and serve it again.
Foods made with ghee
Ghee or clarified butter is rich in healthy fats and for dogs, it can lubricate their joints, strengthen their immune system to withstand the cold, and improve their cognitive abilities. It also keeps them warm, their digestion thriving, and their coat/skin disease-free. Add a tablespoon of ghee to one of their meals daily or better yet, check with your veterinarian about the dosage.
Broth and gravy-based dishes
Just like you, your canine companion may also consume less water as it gets cold, which can unknowingly cause dehydration and low energy levels. Even digestive issues can surface, impacting their coat and skin health massively. Increase their water consumption by changing their water frequently, serving them fresh broths and gravy-based foods, and feeding them veggies and seasonal fruits in water.
Supplements
Supplements, even for your four-pawed friend, play a huge role in keeping their health on top, especially in the winter. Omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin are some healthy supplements that can reduce joint pains and inflammation in your dog during cold weather. For their immunity, Vitamin C and E supplements can do the job. Check with your veterinarian about the dosage.
