Tailoring your dog's diet for increased activity

As spring and summer arrive, and the days grow longer and warmer, many pet owners are eager to spend more time outdoors with their furry companions. This increase in physical activity not only boosts our dogs’ health and spirit but also requires a reassessment of their dietary needs to ensure they are receiving the proper nutrition to support their increased energy expenditure.

Understanding your dog's nutritional needs
Dogs, like humans, require more energy during active periods. The amount of food a dog needs depends on their breed, age, weight, and activity level. As your dog becomes more active with the arrival of warmer weather, their caloric requirements may increase to maintain their energy level.

Adjusting your dog's diet

• Increase Caloric Intake: Dogs that are more active, have a greater energy expenditure and sticking to their current nutrition plan may not meet their daily caloric intake. Adjusting their nutrition plan and increasing their daily caloric intake can help provide the energy they need. This doesn't mean just giving them more of their usual food; consider incorporating foods with higher protein and fat content, which are excellent sources of energy.

Need help in adjusting your pet’s nutrition plan? Contact a Farmina Nutrition Consultant now or download the Farmina Genius App (soon in the UK).

• Hydration is key: With the increase in activity, dogs also need to stay well-hydrated. Always ensure that fresh water is available for your dog, especially during and after walks or play sessions.
   
• Consider meal timing: Feeding your dog a small meal a few hours before increased activity can provide an energy boost. Ensure this meal is balanced and not too heavy, as exercising on a full stomach can be uncomfortable for dogs and in predisposed subjects it may lead to gastric dilatation torsion. Additionally, ensure that the calories from the pre-activity meal are included in in your pet’s total daily caloric intake.
   
• Monitor weight and health: Keep an eye on your dog's weight and overall health. If you notice they are losing weight despite increased food intake, consult your veterinarian. They may need further adjustments in their diet or a check-up to rule out any underlying health issues. 
   
• Quality of food: High-quality food does more than just fill your dog’s stomach—it enhances its overall health and energy levels, supports a healthy immune system, maintains its coat and skin health, and aids in digestive health. As dogs become more active with the warmer weather and longer days of spring and summer, they require high bioavailability nutrition to support their increased energy needs.

Seasonal considerations
Spring and summer time  can be particularly challenging as dogs adjust to a more active lifestyle. It's also a time when many dogs may experience seasonal allergies. Keep an eye out for any signs of allergies and if you are uncertain on what to lookout for, read the dedicated genius tips article.

Contact a Farmina Nutrition Consultant
A Farmina Nutrition Consultant is ready to connect with you and provide guidance based on your dog's specific needs. They’re also here to help you create a nutritional plan that supports your pup's increased activity levels during the spring.

Connect with Farmina Nutrition Consultant Now

Before making significant changes to your dog's diet, it's advisable to consult with a veterinarian.

By taking the time to adjust your dog's diet as they become more active in the spring, you're supporting their health and enabling them to enjoy the season fully. Whether it’s longer walks in the park or more frequent games of fetch, a proper diet will ensure they have the energy to enjoy every moment outside.