Choosing an appropriate adult dog diet
A balanced diet for an adult mixed-breed should meet nutritional needs based on size, activity level, age, and health conditions. Commercial diets labeled for adult maintenance from reputable brands generally provide complete nutrition, but selection depends on individual factors.
Key considerations:
- Life stage: choose an adult-formula that matches activity and body condition.
- Body size and energy: small active dogs need calorie-dense options; larger, less active dogs require controlled-calorie diets.
- Special needs: food sensitivities, weight management, or medical conditions may call for veterinary diets.
Practical tips:
- Read the label: look for named animal proteins as first ingredients and an AAFCO statement for complete nutrition.
- Introduce new foods gradually over 7–10 days to avoid digestive upset.
- Monitor weight and body condition and adjust portions accordingly.
Consult your veterinarian to tailor feeding plans, especially if your dog has allergies, pancreatitis history, or chronic disease. Regular weigh-ins and body condition scoring keep feeding on track.