Hey Neighbors, and fellow Fairfax dog lovers!

We all want our dogs to be happy, healthy, and full of energy for walks around our beautiful neighborhood. As your local dog walking friend, I see firsthand how much regular exercise contributes to a dog's well-being. But there's another huge piece of the puzzle that happens before we even step out the door: what goes into their food bowl!

You might have heard discussions about the importance of diet in pet health – it's a topic gaining more attention, with many, including vets like Dr. Andrew Jones of Veterinary Secrets, highlighting how proper nutrition is the foundation for a healthy life.

Thinking Beyond the Bowl: Why Food Quality Matters

It's easy to grab a bag of kibble, but have you ever stopped to think about what's really in it? Just like with our own diets, the quality of the ingredients in your dog's food can have a significant impact on their overall health.

Feeding your dog high-quality food, rich in real, wholesome ingredients, can contribute to:

• Shinier Coats and Healthier Skin: Often, the first place you'll see the benefits of good nutrition is in their skin and fur. Fewer irritations, less itching, and a beautiful, glossy coat!

• Improved Energy Levels: Real, digestible protein and healthy fats provide sustained energy, perfect for those energetic sprints and exploring the local hills during our walks!

• Better Digestion: Wholesome ingredients are easier for your dog's body to process, leading to healthier gut function and firmer, less frequent stools.

• Stronger Immune System: Good nutrition helps support a robust immune system, helping your pup fight off illness.

• Maintaining a Healthy Weight: Properly balanced food helps dogs feel satisfied and maintain an ideal body condition.

What to Look For in a "High-Quality" Food

So, what should you be looking for when you check that ingredient list?

• Real Animal Protein FIRST: Look for named meat sources like "chicken," "beef," "salmon," or "turkey" as the very first ingredient. This indicates the food is primarily based on the protein source your dog needs.

• Limit Fillers: Be mindful of foods where ingredients like corn, wheat, or soy are listed as the first few ingredients. While not necessarily "bad" in small amounts for some dogs, they can be harder to digest for others and aren't as nutrient-dense as meat or certain vegetables and fruits.

• Avoid Artificial Additives: Try to steer clear of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. These offer no nutritional value and some dogs can have sensitivities to them.

• Look for Wholesome Ingredients: Seeing ingredients like sweet potatoes, peas, carrots, berries, or spinach further down the list is often a good sign of a more well-rounded food.

Making the Change

Switching your dog's food should be done gradually over about a week to avoid upsetting their stomach. Mix a little bit of the new food with their old food, slowly increasing the ratio of the new food each day.

Taking a moment to consider what's going into your dog's bowl is an important step in supporting their health from the inside out. It complements the benefits of regular exercise beautifully and can truly help your furry friend thrive!

Have you noticed a difference in your dog after changing their food? Share your experiences in the comments below!

Happy Walking (and Eating!) in Fairfax!