A healthy diet is the foundation of your dog’s wellbeing. From a playful puppy bounding around the yard to a senior companion enjoying a slower pace, what you put in your dog’s bowl directly impacts their energy levels, coat condition, immune system, and even their lifespan. Understanding the basics of canine nutrition doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require knowing which nutrients matter most, how much to feed, and how to make the best food choices for your individual dog.

The Building Blocks of a Healthy Diet

Dogs, like humans, need a balanced combination of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and water. Proteins are the muscle-builders, repairing tissue and supporting growth. They should come from high-quality sources like meat, poultry, fish, or eggs. Fats provide concentrated energy and help your dog absorb vitamins A, D, E, and K, while also keeping the skin and coat in top condition1. Carbohydrates, often from rice, oats, or sweet potatoes, are a quick energy source and provide fiber for healthy digestion. Vitamins and minerals — from calcium for strong bones to zinc for skin health — keep every system running smoothly. And of course, fresh water should always be available, as it’s essential for everything from regulating body temperature to aiding digestion.

The right amount to feed your dog depends on their age, breed, weight, and activity level. Puppies, for example, need smaller, more frequent meals to support rapid growth, while healthy adult dogs generally thrive on two meals a day. Senior dogs may need fewer calories to prevent weight gain but often benefit from nutrient-dense, easily digestible meals.

Portion guides on commercial food labels can be a helpful starting point, but they’re not set in stone. Monitoring your dog’s body condition score — a visual and hands-on assessment of weight and muscle tone — is a more reliable way to determine if you need to adjust their intake2.

Choosing the Right Food

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the “best dog food” question. Kibble offers convenience and balanced nutrition when formulated to meet AAFCO standards3. Wet food has higher moisture content and can be more appealing to picky eaters. Fresh or frozen diets bring a whole-food approach but should still be carefully formulated to avoid deficiencies. Even homemade diets can work well, but only if you consult a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist to ensure they meet all nutrient requirements.

When evaluating a dog food, look for a statement confirming it is “complete and balanced” according to AAFCO guidelines, and check that a quality protein source is listed first on the ingredient list. Avoid foods that rely heavily on fillers or artificial additives.

Establishing a Feeding Routine

Dogs thrive on consistency. Feeding them at the same times each day supports healthy digestion and predictable bathroom habits. Measuring portions instead of free-feeding prevents overeating, which is especially important since obesity is one of the most common — and preventable — health issues in dogs. You can even make mealtime more engaging by using puzzle feeders or slow bowls, which encourage mental stimulation and prevent gulping.

What Not to Feed

Some human foods can be dangerous, even in small amounts. Chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol (a sugar substitute), alcohol, and cooked bones are all toxic to dogs. Even seemingly harmless scraps from the table can upset their stomach or contribute to weight gain. When in doubt, it’s always safest to stick to foods and treats specifically made for dogs.

If your dog shows sudden weight changes, persistent digestive upset, or unusual eating habits, it’s time to check in with your vet. They can help identify food allergies, recommend specialized diets for medical conditions, or adjust feeding plans for life stage changes4.

Final Thought: Feeding your dog is more than filling a bowl — it’s an ongoing investment in their health and happiness. By choosing a balanced diet, sticking to an appropriate portion size, and avoiding harmful foods, you’ll help your dog live their best (and most extended) life.

  1. Association of American Feed Control Officials. (2024). Dog food nutrient profiles. AAFCO. https://www.aafco.org ↩︎
  2. Case, L. P., Daristotle, L., Hayek, M. G., & Raasch, M. F. (2011). Canine and feline nutrition: A resource for companion animal professionals (3rd ed.). Elsevier Health Sciences. ↩︎
  3. National Research Council. (2006). Nutrient requirements of dogs and cats. The National Academies Press. https://doi.org/10.17226/10668 ↩︎
  4. Hand, M. S., Thatcher, C. D., Remillard, R. L., Roudebush, P., & Novotny, B. J. (2010). Small animal clinical nutrition (5th ed.). Mark Morris Institute. ↩︎