SoMo Farm & Ranch Supply in Springfield, Missouri, is a proud supplier of Victor Pet Food in Southwest Missouri.
Today, we’d like to answer some frequently asked questions about dog food for those of you interested in competitive prices at our locally owned pet food store in Springfield.
What is the best food for a dog?
Several brands of dog food made the list of Dog Food Advisor’s best dry dog foods. Victor Classic Dry Dog Food frequently ranks as one of the highest-rated dog foods for your pup, and we carry that in our Springfield, Missouri, pet store.
How much food does my dog need?
The amount of dog food your pup needs depends on several factors:
- Body weight/size of dog
- Activity level/amount of exercise
- Metabolism
- Number of meals per day
- Type of food
Should I purchase dog food based on my dog’s stage of life?
Absolutely, you should select a type of dog food that’s right for your pooch. There are plenty of formulas specially designed for puppies, adults, senior dogs, and even pregnant dogs. For example, puppies should get formulas higher in protein because they need more of this macronutrient to help their brain, bones, and muscles develop during their first year.
Do certain breeds need more food?
Very active dogs, like hunting breeds and terriers, may need more food because they run around and love to explore the outdoors. Indoor dogs may not need as much. Feel free to peruse our wide variety of dog food at our store in Springfield, Missouri. We offer competitive prices on super premium Victor Pet Food.
How much dog food should I feed my pup based on the size?
The first thing you should do is read the label on your chosen dog food. It’s a great idea to follow the manufacturer’s instructions because the calories vary in different types of dog food. Consult with your veterinarian for more feeding tips.
You can also use this handy feeding guide for the size of your dog, based on recommendations from PetMD, based on your dog’s weight and the feeding amount in cups per day and calories.
- 3 pounds, ⅓ cup with 139 calories
- 6 pounds, ½ cup with 233 calories
- 10 pounds, ¾ cup with 342 calories
- 15 pounds, 1 cup with 464 calories
- 20 pounds, 1 ⅓ cups with 576 calories
- 30 pounds, 1 ¾ cups with 781 calories
- 40 pounds, 2 ¼ cups with 969 calories
- 50 pounds, 2 ⅔ cups with 1,145 calories
- 60 pounds, 3 cups with 1,313 calories
- 70 pounds, 3 ½ cups with 1,474 calories
- 80 pounds, 3 ¾ cups with 1,629 calories
- 90 pounds, 4 ¼ cups with 1,779 calories
- 100 pounds, 4 ½ cups with 1,926 calories
For dogs over 100 pounds, feed them the right amount for 100 pounds plus adding ⅓ cup for every additional 10 pounds over 100 pounds of body weight. For example, a dog weighing 120 pounds would get around 5 ⅓ cups of food per day
Make sure to divide the total amount of food you’re feeding your dog by the number of feedings per day. For instance, you have a 40-pound adult English springer spaniel you feed twice a day. You would feed him 1 ⅓ cups of dog food in the morning and the same amount in the afternoon.
Why is feeding my dog the right amount of food essential for health?
Feeding your dog too little food could lead to nutritional problems and slow development.
On the other hand, feeding your dog too much might lead to other health issues like:
- Obesity
- Congestive heart failure
- Labored breathing
- Skin disorders
- Some types of cancer
- Reduced quality of life
- Shorter life span
- Cushing’s disease, which may cause kidney or metabolic disorders.
How can I tell my dog is a healthy weight?
Part of how much dog food your pooch needs involves body condition.
Your dog has the right body condition with these three conditions:
- An hourglass figure when looking at your dog from above. The middle, where the ribs and lungs are, should stick out more than the head, hips, stomach, and legs. The abdomen should be narrower than the chest and hips.
- The belly is tucked up when looking at your dog from the side. The chest should be closer to the ground than the abdomen and stomach when standing.
- Ribs are not readily visible, but you can easily feel them with only light pressure.
Your veterinarian can help you determine your dog’s body condition.
How much protein and fat should be in my dog’s food?
A dog should receive at least 10 percent of daily calories from protein and a minimum of 5.5 percent from fats because they naturally have a carnivorous diet. An adult dog’s diet may contain up to 50 percent carbohydrates and anywhere from 2.5 to 4.5 percent fiber.
Are there dog foods for special diets?
Yes, many dog food companies manufacture dog foods for special diets. Your veterinarian will recommend what type of diet your dog needs if there are any special considerations.
Are dry dog foods better than moist or canned dog foods?
In general, dry dog food contains more nutrients per serving because it contains less moisture. Consider your dog’s preferences when choosing the right type of dog food when it comes to nutritional needs. Canned foods may contain 68 to 78 percent water, and they could have more meat, seafood, or poultry compared to dry dog food. Victor Pet Food has dry and moist food as well as treats. Our Springfield, Missouri, pet store carries these items regularly.
Can I feed my dog treats?
Veterinarians recommend limiting treats for your dog because they aren’t as nutrient-dense as food. No more than 5 percent of your dog’s calories should come from treats. Your veterinarian can recommend the right kind of treats for your pup to supplement their dog food.
Can I feed my dog human food?
Veterinarians do not recommend feeding your dog human food or table scraps because human food doesn’t supply all of the nutrients your dog needs.
When should I take my dog to the vet for dog food recommendations?
If your dog goes more than a day without eating, vomits more than once, or has sudden weight loss, you should take your dog to the vet. Your veterinarian may recommend a dog food or diet to help with your dog’s health.
Does SoMo Farm & Ranch Supply sell dog food?
We have competitive pricing for Victor Pet Food in Southwest Missouri for your dog. From Yorkies and schnauzers to German shepherds and hounds, we have a Victor dog food formula to meet your pup’s needs.
Stop by our store or call us at (417) 865-0312 for more information. We’re happy to help any time at our pet store in Springfield, Missouri.