Healthy Diet Management for Shetland Sheepdogs
Shetland Sheepdog
Generally, Shetland Sheepdogs are very greedy; as long as they like the food and the quantity is sufficient, they will eat heartily without considering whether their stomach and intestines can handle or digest it. To ensure the health of Shetland Sheepdogs, special attention is needed for their daily dietary care. Although Shelties are intelligent and capable, they are still pets and require their owners' care and attention no matter how old they get. When raising a Shetland Sheepdog in daily life, it is important to pay attention to the following points:
First, during the period from weaning to 3 months old, the food given to Sheltie puppies must be soft. For example, chosen puppy kibble should first be soaked in warm water to soften, then mixed evenly with puppy milk powder before feeding. Note that all other hard foods should not be given to Sheltie puppies.
Second, dogs need sufficient protein, vitamins, calcium, and other nutrients for growth. However, during feeding, it is important to note that the demand for these nutrients (such as calcium), along with some trace elements and minerals, should be met in proper amounts. Because too much or too little can harm the Sheltie's growth; only an appropriate amount can ensure a healthy diet.
Third, many foods are not suitable for Shetland Sheepdogs, and this is something owners must be aware of. For example, expired or rotten food, spicy and irritating food, foods with high salt content, raw or frozen foods, etc. In addition, onions, garlic, ginger, chili, curry powder, chocolate, ice cream, grapes, raisins, sharp small bones, and so forth should not be given to Shelties. Therefore, it is best to understand this knowledge before preparing food for the dog to ensure dietary safety.
The best and healthiest food to feed Sheltand Sheepdogs should be professional dog food such as kibble, canned dog food, dog biscuits, etc. Of course, dog food made according to professional recipes is also suitable for Shelties.