Cattle dogs are highly energetic dogs, and the cattle dog diet is very important because these dogs have to perform a lot of duties like herding, farm protection, and livestock guarding. They need a special diet plan that provides stamina and nourishment to their body, as they are born to run a long way and work for hours in all weather conditions. In this article, we will unwrap the best diets and food options for cattle dogs in India.
Nutritional requirements of a cattle dog diet
• Protein
Protein is crucial for dogs because it not only builds muscles and repairs skin but also provides a strong immune system and sustained energy to the cattle dog. The most common protein sources for Indian cattle dogs are chicken, fish, lentils, and soybeans.
• Fats
Fats are an integral part of the cattle diet because they support cells, help absorb fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamins A, D, K, and E, and provide concentrated energy to the dog’s body. The primary fat sources for Indian cattle dogs are fish meal, egg yolks, flax seeds, and coconut oil.
• Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates provide glucose as an energy source to cattle dogs and fibers necessary for their digestive health. Common carbohydrate sources for dogs include rice, corn, peas, wheat, lentils, and many pet commercials.
• Vitamins
Another cattle dog diet element is vitamins, and they are important for a dog’s growth, metabolism, and a healthy immune system. Their deficiency leads to poor skin, bone issues, and low energy in dogs. Common sources for vitamins in dogs are dairy products such as yogurt and other sources such as meat, amla, and vegetables like carrots, pumpkins, and bottle gourd.
• Water
Water is essential for any living organism on earth, and so it is for dogs. Water helps in regulating their body temperature, absorption of nutrients, healthy organ functionality, providing lubrication of joints, and detoxification in dogs. A clean water source is always available for cattle dogs near their shed.
Best food options for a cattle dog.
Cattle dog health and diet can be maintained through commercial dog food options, raw food diets, and special diets for different life stages.
• Commercial dog food
Commercial dog food is a perfect blend of nutrients that are essential for a dog’s energy and overall health. Ready-to-use foods are one of the best options when you are not able to provide a balanced diet to the dog at home. There are many commercial dog foods provided by companies like Pedigree, Drools, and Royal Canin that produce high-quality dog food for dogs of all ages and are safe and consistent to use.
Dry Food vs. Wet Food in Cattle Dog Diet
Both dry and wet foods are beneficial for a dog’s health. But it is important to consult a veterinarian before making any choice. Let’s understand the manufacturing procedure of both types of foods.
How is wet dog food processed?
Wet foods are made by simply crushing the protein and meat ingredients together. Then slowly add the gravy to it, which contains all the essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, etc., and mix it well. Then the food is cooked and sterilized at last before being converted into the canned product. Wet food products are often favored by dogs because they are highly moisturized as compared to dry food. They are more aromatic and flavorful, and even revive the appetite of sick or older dogs. They are easy to chew and feel full even in small consumption.
How is dry dog food processed?
The ingredients used in dry food are the same as those in wet food. But instead of adding the gravy, they make a dough of primary ingredients such as protein, meat, and chicken, and cook it well. Then the dough is squeezed through small holes to form kibbles. The kibbles then undergo the drying process and are then sprayed with vitamins, minerals, and oils before being packed in large or small packets. A dry diet is affordable, does not spoil if left over all day, and helps in maintaining the diet by being easy to integrate into food puzzles.
• Home-cooked food and raw food
Homemade food can be an active extension to a cattle dog diet. But you cannot serve them the food you make for yourself. Cattle dogs need enough energy to work for hours. You can make their food by simply cooking lean proteins like chicken, turkey, and fish without using any spices and seasonings. For carbohydrates, serve brown rice, sweet potato, oats, and barley, as they provide energy to the dog and are good for digestive health. For a vegetarian cattle dog diet, you can mix boiled vegetables such as carrots, broccoli, spinach, and pumpkins and serve them with a little soupy consistency.
Raw food diet
Many farmers and cattle owners recommend a raw food diet, especially if you have no time to cook. In a raw diet, uncooked ingredients are served, such as chicken, bones, meat, raw eggs, and some vegetables. It is advised to always clean the raw foods and utensils before serving to avoid any bacterial infection.
Feeding guidelines for cattle dogs
• An adult cattle dog must eat 3-4 cups of commercial dry food and 2-3 cups of wet food. If you are feeding them home-cooked food, it should not be more than a medium-sized bowl each time, with equal portions of each ingredient in the cattle dog diet.
• Cattle dog calories should not be more than 1900 calories for adult dogs and 1500 calories for puppies.
• An ideal adult cattle dog should not eat more than 2-3 meals a day, whereas puppies need frequent meals, so they should be served multiple meals in small portions every day.
• Use puzzle food bowls to control their diet, increase mental stimulation, improve digestion, and reduce unhealthy behaviors like bloating, obesity, and excessive air gulping.
• Provide them with sufficient fresh and clean water to avoid dehydration and ensure proper bodily functions.
• Use positive reinforcement methods by offering healthy treats and snacks without overfeeding.
FAQ
1. How to care for a cattle dog?
A cattle dog needs to do a lot of daily tasks; that’s why it should be provided a high-quality diet according to its age, size, and health conditions. Grooming should be done properly, as they are working in dirt and dust all day, and a proper shed that supports all weather conditions will be allotted to them.
2. How much to feed a cattle dog?
A cattle dog should not be fed more than 2-3 cups of commercial food, and if you provide them with home-cooked food, then it also should not be more than a medium-sized bowl two times a day.
3. What is a raw diet for cattle dogs?
Typically, a raw diet for cattle dogs includes chicken, muscle meat, edible bone, fish, small amounts of vegetables and fruits, and some nuts and seeds.
Final words
Cattle dogs are highly energetic, intelligent, and courageous dogs. They are known for herding livestock by using the heeling and nipping technique to move stock animals by biting their heels. A cattle dog diet should be ideal for supporting their extremely active lifestyle, promoting muscle repair, providing energy, and preventing obesity and other health issues.