DIET, NUTRITION, and EXERCISE

How much should I feed my Scottie and what is the best brand of dog food? New owners often ask these kinds of questions, and sometimes even experienced owners may question their current regimen of diet and exercise. So let's cover a couple of these topics.

Table Scraps:

Many pet owners insist on feeding their dogs table scraps. The problem is that table scraps alone are a very unhealthy canine diet and can easily lead to nutritional deficiencies. Even using table scraps as a significant supplement is not a good idea. Most dog foods have been through a testing program that has demonstrated that the diet provides all of the necessary ingredients for a healthy dog. There are also significant differences between a healthy canine diet and one that is suitable for cats. So don't feed your dog a diet of cat food.

Variety:

Dogs do not really need much variety in their diet. In fact dietary changes frequently lead to loose stools and other digestive problems. If you use the same food on a daily basis and it becomes necessary to change the food, do it gradually by using a mixture of the two foods over several days. By slowly changing the diet you will minimize the problems.

Vitamins:

Most dog foods that have passed the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrition Profile contain all of the necessary vitamins and minerals. Pregnant females often require supplements and occasionally a dog may need certain supplements, but always consult a veterinarian first. Today there are many new natural dog foods. They do not contain chemical preservatives. Instead the food is preserved with vitamins, especially vitamin E. Many of these new foods don't contain wheat and soy. They may be preferable for dogs with potential allergy problems.

Teeth:

Canine dental health is very important to the long-term health of your Scottie. Gradually introduce the dog to a toothbrush and having their teeth examined. Eventually you should be able to brush the dog's teeth once or twice weekly with a toothbrush and canine (not human) toothpaste. A gauze pad moistened with a plaque eliminator can also help to control plaque buildup. This approach can either be used alone or in combination with the toothbrush. If the plaque buildup should become significant, then consider having the dog's teeth professionally cleaned. Most veterinarians recommend teeth cleaning once a year. This is especially important as your Scottie ages. Tartar buildup and the associated bacterial infections are often the cause of abnormal blood test results. Scotties should have a "scissors bite" where the upper incisors are just in front of the lower incisors and the canine teeth should close and lock. If this is not the case, or if you notice wear on the teeth your Scottie should see a veterinarian.

Dog Treats:

Dry dog food and hard treats can help control tarter and bad breath. They should be used sparingly however, and remember that a small treat is just as rewarding as a large one.

Excessive Weight:

It is not healthy for your dog to become overweight. Scotties should typically weigh between 18 and 22 pounds. Excessive weight can lead to heart, lung and joint problems and significantly reduce the dog's life expectancy. If your Scottie is over 25 pounds, talk to your veterinarian about a weight reduction diet and consider starting an exercise program.

Eating Schedule:

Dogs typically work well with a regular feeding schedule that includes either one or two meals at the same time every day. An irregular schedule can cause chronic digestive disorders. Whenever your dog eats, don't leave food out longer than 20 to 30 minutes. If the dog walks away, it is finished and the food should be removed. If your dog becomes over eager at feeding time, be careful and watch that it doesn't "gulp" the food. Scotties can aspirate food into their lungs or get food caught in their throat if they are eating too fast. One way to slow the eating is to place a large ball or other non-edible object in the food dish.

Exercise:

Leaving you Scottie out in the back yard is really not exercise. A 20 to 30 minute walk or a game of fetch is a much more appropriate alternative. The one-on-one time spent with your dog is also as important as the exercise. Working with your dog as part of either an obedience, agility or earthdog training program is also good exercise, both mental and physical