Have you ever thought about how crucial your dog’s heart is for their overall well-being? It’s not just about their heart pumping—it’s also about what fuels it. In addition to keeping them active and ensuring they have regular check-ups with the vet, providing a balanced diet rich in heart-friendly ingredients is vital for supporting your furry friend’s heart health and reducing the risk of certain heart conditions.
Best Food For Your Dog’s Health
You can opt for transitioning to a fresh food diet focused on heart health or simply incorporate some additional ingredients into your dog’s meal.
Dr. Heather Mayers, in “Nutrition For Dogs for a Healthy Heart” published in the Pet Pal website, said the following are known for their significant benefits in supporting heart health.
1. Green leafy vegetables: Spinach and kale are packed with antioxidants that combat free radicals, potentially reducing damage to the heart muscle.
2. Fish: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fatty fish like salmon, sardines, and mackerel can decrease inflammation and enhance heart function.
3.Whole grains: Brown and white rice, oatmeal, and barley provide vitamins and fiber beneficial for heart health.
4.Carrots, pumpkin, and sweet potatoes: These vegetables are rich in beta carotene (converted to vitamin A) and potassium.
5.Organ meat: Particularly hearts, which are high in taurine and contain CoQ10, a vital enzyme that combats oxidative stress in the body, making them superfoods for dogs that support heart health, as well as boost the immune and digestive systems.
6.Flaxseed oil: A source of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, along with lignans, flaxseed oil supports cardiovascular health.
7.Rosemary: This aromatic herb contains antioxidants that bolster the immune system and may lower the risk of cancer and heart disease in your pup.
8. Animal proteins: Chicken, beef, pork, and lamb are sources of L-carnitine, an essential amino acid crucial for heart health.
9.Blueberries: Loaded with fiber and heart-healthy antioxidants, blueberries can mitigate degenerative heart damage.
If your dog has received a diagnosis of heart disease, it is important to consult your veterinarian before introducing any new food. Following your vet’s dietary recommendations and guidelines is crucial to prevent potential nutritional deficiencies.
Dietary Tips For a Healthy Heart
1. Give your dog high quality protein
In the past, limiting protein intake was recommended for dogs with heart issues, but experts have since recognized that reduced protein can result in decreased muscle mass, which could be life-threatening. Protein is crucial for maintaining the health of dogs’ hearts as it fortifies the heart muscle.
2. Decrease Sodium Consumption
Just like in humans, excessive salt in a dog’s diet can be dangerous, particularly for those susceptible to heart issues. Maintain low intake even if they show no symptoms. Consistently feeding them heart-healthy foods is crucial, as sudden spikes in sodium can strain heart function.
3. Provide Your Dog with Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Mayers said incorporating omega-3 fatty acid-rich fish oils into their diet is crucial for promoting overall heart health. These fatty acids play a role in reducing detrimental inflammation and shielding against irregular heart rhythms.
“A study on canine heart disease demonstrated enhanced survival rates with the use of omega-3 supplements. Natural sources of omega-3 fatty acids include cod liver oil, which may be present in certain fresh, natural foods, as well as sardines and salmon. Alternatively, you can supplement your dog’s diet with omega-3 fatty acid dietary supplements,” Mayers said.
4. Taurine Aids Heart Function
Mayers suggested adding taurine, an amino acid, to your dog’s diet to support heart function, even when they are in good health. While veterinarians are not entirely certain of taurine’s exact role, they do know that its absence can lead to an enlarged heart. Taurine can be naturally obtained from cooked lamb and raw beef liver, or it can be provided in supplement form.
5. Maintaining a Healthy Weight
Ensuring your dog stays within a healthy weight range is vital for preventing heart issues. Portion control is important and avoid free feeding. It is also crucial to balance your dog’s diet.
“Give a balanced ratio of high-quality meat protein, naturally occurring fats like cod liver oil, and carbohydrates from nutrient-rich sources like starches, vegetables, and seeds, in a 1:1:1 ratio,” Mayers said.
Getting to know the specific health risks associated with your dog’s breed can enable you to recognize potential warning signs early on and take proactive measures to maintain their cardiovascular health. If you have concerns about your pup’s risk of heart disease, consult your veterinarian about screening tests for heart-related conditions.
About the Author: Niko Gabriel Salgado is a graduate of consular and diplomatic affairs from De La Salle College of Saint Benilde, and worked at the House of Representatives. He is now an entrepreneur and a volunteer of the animal welfare group Save Animals of Love and Light- Save ALL.