Labrador Retriever

       Many people wonder why stray dogs or farm dogs in rural areas often seem very energetic and rarely get sick, while their own dogs fall ill frequently. There is a saying, "Not too clean, eating without getting sick," which holds some truth. Just like the homeless people seen on the streets during the SARS outbreak, they still managed very well. Many dogs are so physically delicate because some owners spoil them too much, which is what we call "affluent disease." They mostly eat various high-end foods, rich in nutrients. But is excessive nutrition really good? What are the dangers of excessive nutrition in dogs?

       Simply put, if a pet dog consumes too many nutrients, it will lead to an excess of nutrition in the body, which can cause or trigger health problems. The biggest harm excessive nutrition causes dogs is physical harm. Simply, the most direct consequence of excessive nutrition in dogs is obesity, which in turn can lead to health issues such as hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, and so on.

       If dogs consume too much fat and protein, it can easily cause kidney disease. If dogs intake too much protein and minerals like phosphorus, sodium, etc., it can increase the risk index for kidney disease or worsen existing kidney disease. If a pregnant dog has excessive nutrition and obesity problems, it can easily induce pregnancy hypertension and lead to dystocia (difficult labor).

       In summary, the dangers of excessive nutrition in dogs are quite obvious. The principle of moderation applies here; more is not always better. Everything needs to have a proper balance. Therefore, raising dogs should not be overly delicate, and sometimes "experiencing hardship" is not necessarily a bad thing.