Quality Working Dog Food, Could It Benefit Your Active Dog?

Working Dog Food

Working dogs have unique nutritional needs that must be met in order to perform at their best. Working dogs are active and use lots of energy. They need a diet that is rich in fat to supply energy and quality protein to aid recovery.

Working dogs require a range of specific vitamins and minerals to support joint health and overall well-being.

Picture Credit: Sharon Newman

Quality of Ingredients

The quality of the ingredients is the most important thing to think about when choosing the best working dog food. The best working dog food is made with high-quality proteins like beef, lamb, chicken, or fish. Also fats like fish oil and fats from animals. Not only do these ingredients have to be of high quality, but they also have to make up a lot of the recipe. Look for the first thing on the list of ingredients to be a good source of protein. Personally, I would avoid seed oils in your dog's food.

Foods for working dogs should also contain a balance of carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals to support overall health and well-being. Don't believe the myth that dogs can't use carbohydrates!

Protein and Fat Content

When choosing a working dog food keep an eye on the protein and fat content. Working dogs require a diet that is high in protein and fat, to support their active lifestyle. Ideally, the food should contain at least 25% protein and 13% fat. The fat provides the energy for your dog to work and the protein repairs the broken-down muscle after a hard day's work. My own dog is fed our Large breed Junior during the shooting and trialling season

Picture Credit: Sharon Newman

Individual Needs of the Dog

When feeding a working dog, it is important to take consider the dog's individual needs. For example, a working dog with joint issues may benefit from food that contains added glucosamine and chondroitin. Similarly, a working dog with a sensitive stomach may benefit from food that is formulated for sensitive stomachs.