Correct dog food and high feed and water intake are, together with training, the factors that determine the dog’s ability to perform to the maximum during activity. Active dogs, such as hunting dogs, can have an energy requirement of from 3 to 8 times the normal maintenance requirement and it is almost impossible to meet this high energy requirement without giving the dog a high-energy feed, and there is often a need for additional supplements in the form of energy-rich wet food, fat, rumen, freeze-dried tripe e.g.. If dog’s energy needs are not met, the result will be reduced performance and reduced holding.
The energy in a dog food comes from the three main nutrients protein, fat and carbohydrates. Fat provides twice as much energy as protein and carbohydrates, and increased fat content is the easiest and most effective way to increase the energy content of a dog food. A dry pet food that will work well during training and hunting should have a fat content of at least 22 – 25% and over 30% during long-term hunting, competitions and races. This provides extra energy when fat burning goes into high gear during long training trips. Carbohydrates are a good source of energy and through short or more intensive training trips, the supply of glucose from the starch will contribute to increased performance. Proteins can also contribute as a source of energy, but are primarily building materials in the body and necessary to form cells and tissues. In an adult dog, the need for proteins is relatively low.
Transition from regular dog food to high-energy food
Preparations for increased activity should start well in advance. Here we are talking about training muscle mass and making the body’s ability to convert nutrients and energy more efficient. Through systematic and correct training methods, as well as good feeding for preferably 2-3 months before the hunting or racing season, you achieve that the dog is in top form when it really matters. The transition from normal dog food to a high-energy food should take place in connection with the start of the training period. In this way, the increased energy demand can be more easily met right from the start.
Nice to know when when exercising with your dog
The most important thing is that the dog gets enough water along the way. Dehydration will reduce performance.
Increased exercise requires adaptations to ensure that the dog gets enough nutrition. To increase feed intake, used of soaked tripe mixed with the dry feed can make the ration more palatable..
Within Appetitt dog food range, you will find two varieties of dog food that are specially adapted to active working dogs, Appetitt ENERGY and Appetitt EXTREME