Every day, we fill our dog's bowl with food that directly impacts their health, energy, longevity, and overall enjoyment. The choices we make about their diet are critical to their well-being.

While human meals share similarities in importance, dogs are typically fed just once a day, making their dietary choices even more crucial—and sometimes overwhelming or controversial.

Raw, Cooked, or Processed?

For centuries, wild canines thrived on a diet rich in raw meat, often supplemented by the partially digested stomach contents of their prey. Early domesticated dogs survived on scraps from humans combined with whatever they could hunt or forage.

Commercial Diets

In recent decades, commercially formulated dog foods have become widely available, designed to provide complete nutritional value. Advocates highlight that these diets are rigorously tested and refined over generations. Premium options even use human-grade ingredients for optimal quality and nutrition.

Raw Diets

Raw food diets have gained popularity in recent years, promoting a more natural approach by mimicking ancestral eating habits. These diets often include whole raw animal carcasses, particularly chicken—bones included. Supporters claim benefits such as improved health, cleaner teeth, and lower food costs.

Critics, however, argue that while raw diets resemble what wolves eat, domestic dogs have evolved over thousands of years and may require different nutritional needs.

Evaluating Food Choices

As omnivores, dogs thrive on a balanced diet of both animal and plant-based nutrients. These nutrients are available in various forms:

• Dry Food: Contains about 10% moisture. It’s the most economical and healthy option but often less appealing to dogs.
• Semi-Moist Food: With around 30% moisture, this type contains higher sugar levels as preservatives.
• Canned Food: Contains up to 75% moisture, making it tasty but more expensive due to the high water content.

Canine Nutrition Tips

When comparing food labels, remember that moisture content can skew nutritional comparisons. Always calculate the dry matter percentage to make accurate evaluations.

A general guideline is to ensure three to four out of six main ingredients are animal-based, as these are more digestible and palatable. High digestibility also reduces stool volume and gas issues.

Key components that vary among brands are their protein and fat levels.

Protein

Protein is essential for muscle development, bone strength, coat health, and immune system support. Its source and quality are just as important as the quantity.

Animal-based proteins, such as chicken, turkey, beef, or fish, are more digestible and nutritious than plant-based alternatives. Dogs with high energy demands, stress, or underweight conditions benefit from diets higher in protein.

Puppies, pregnant, and nursing dogs require higher protein and fat levels, often found in puppy foods. While it was once believed that older dogs should consume low-protein diets to protect kidney health, research shows that high-quality protein is beneficial for dogs with kidney issues, provided phosphorus levels are reduced.

For an average adult dog, a protein level of 20-22% (dry matter) is typically sufficient. For breeds like Jack Russell Terriers, experts recommend a diet containing at least 25% high-quality animal protein.

Fat

Fat provides calories, improves food palatability, and supports vitamin absorption, energy levels, and skin and coat health. Dogs lacking fat in their diet may suffer from dry skin, sparse coats, or scaly patches. However, too much fat can lead to obesity and nutrient imbalances.

Active or working dogs need higher fat levels to sustain their energy demands, while overweight or dogs with certain conditions (e.g., pancreatitis or heart issues) should stick to low-fat diets. For Jack Russell Terriers, a diet with at least 10% fat from high-quality sources like chicken fat, fish oil, or flaxseed oil is recommended.

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are a primary energy source in many dog foods, though their quality varies. Ingredients like brown rice or sweet potatoes are better utilized by dogs, while those derived from corn, wheat, or oats are less digestible. Cooking improves carbohydrate digestibility, but excessive amounts can lead to digestive upset, reduced performance, or flatulence.

Avoid carbohydrate-heavy diets filled with low-quality grains. Instead, focus on nutritious sources like rice or sweet potatoes.

Fiber

Fiber plays a role in digestion but should be included in moderation. High-quality fiber sources, like beet pulp or rice bran, can be beneficial, especially in weight management diets. However, too much fiber can interfere with nutrient absorption and cause digestive issues. Stick to balanced levels for optimal health.

Water

Water is vital for your dog's health. Simply topping off the water bowl each day can lead to bacterial growth or algae formation. To ensure your dog stays hydrated and safe, clean and refill their bowl daily with fresh water.

For Jack Russell Terriers, maintaining hydration is crucial for their overall well-being, so always provide clean, fresh water.

Avoid Table Scraps

Feeding table scraps to your dog can lead to weight gain and digestive issues. Some human foods, such as chocolate, onions, and grapes, are toxic to dogs. Stick to a diet designed specifically for your pet’s needs.

Homemade Dog Food

If you choose to prepare homemade meals for your Jack Russell Terrier, it is essential to ensure the diet is balanced and meets their nutritional requirements. While homemade food can offer variety and freshness, it requires careful planning to include all necessary vitamins and minerals.

Consult with a veterinarian or canine nutritionist to design a well-balanced diet for your dog. Use high-quality ingredients and avoid toxic foods. Some healthy options for homemade meals include:

• Lean meats like chicken, turkey, or beef
• Fish such as salmon or tuna
• Vegetables like green beans, carrots, or sweet potatoes
• Fruits such as apples or bananas (in moderation)
• Whole grains like brown rice or quinoa

Homemade meals should not replace a complete and balanced diet. Supplement with essential vitamins and minerals to ensure your dog receives all the nutrients they need for a healthy, active life.

Jack Terriers Health