Your dog must always have access to fresh and clean drinking water. Dogs do not have sweat glands and they cool themselves through panting and salivation. They need to replenish water in order for their bodies to function properly. Observe how much your dog drinks. Usually it’s a quarter cup per kilogram of body weight. If your dog drinks less, or much more – just keep an eye on it and call the vet if you think it’s necessary.

Dogs also require proteins, fats, carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins as essential nutrients of the dog’s regular diet, involved in all of the basic functions of the body. The minimum and maximum dietary requirement has been established for many nutrients. Different breeds require different quantities of food and nutrients, and it is always advised to study the breed of your dog in order to provide the correct nutrition.

Most dogs do well on ready-made food like dry food, canned food or combination. In Uganda, meat trimmings cooked with maize flour are the most common dog food, yet this type of feeding has a number of limitations and risks. Puppies, pregnant and lactating mothers, the sick and senior dogs, as well as dogs with allergies, require special dietary formulations as recommended by the vet.

Overweight (obese) and underweight dogs are both becoming a huge problem. The owner must make an effort to give the dog a balanced diet that will help the dog get into the healthy shape. Exercise plays a big part in managing obese dogs.

If you are in doubt on how to feed obese or underfed dogs, consult your veterinarian for a proper guidance in regards to the right dietary needs of your dog, basing on its situation.