Feeding A Golden Retriever for Optimum Health

How much does a golden retriever eat? What type of diet should you consider? It’s important to remember that this large dog breed has a longer lifespan of up to 15 years or more, so owners should ensure;

a) their nutritional requirements at different life stages, like puppies, older pets, and nursing mothers. Various factors will affect the nutritional needs of your Golden Retriever.

b) finding appropriate pet insurance as longer life span dogs have more health associated costs. Having cover as early as possible is always recommended, or at the very least, before their 8th birthday (as premiums rise after that)

Golden Retriever Size

With size, we mean weight and height. An adult male Golden Retriever weighs 30-35 kg and measures 56-61cm. An adult female Golden Retriever weighs 27-32 kg and reaches up to 56 cm on average. As with all dogs, it’s important to ensure your pet does not become overweight. If you are concerned about your pet’s weight, it’s important to speak to your veterinarian and reduce the amount of treats you feed.

Golden Retriever Activity Levels

Since Golden Retrievers are adaptable and versatile, they can shine at being both a family-loving pet and a working dog. They make great companion pets who are well known to adjust to life with other four-legged friends like rabbits happily. On the international stage, Golden Retrievers are hard-working rescue dogs, retrieval pets, and guide-dogs.

Working Golden Retrievers have a higher activity level; consequently, they will require a diet that is rich in carbohydrates as their source of energy. It is also important that you make sure that the fat level is moderate. Adjusting this accordingly depending on your pet’s activity levels. If in doubt, it’s best to check in with your local veterinarian.

Conversely, Golden Retrievers with a lower activity level should have a low-calorie diet.

Golden Retriever Sensitivities

Golden Retrievers can live up to 12 to 15 years of age. You must be careful not to overfeed, as it can lead to obesity. Golden Retrievers are sensitive to weight gain, which can lead to unwanted health issues.

Like with all dogs, it’s important not to feed your Golden any cooked bones. Cooked bones splinter, causing major issues not only in the throat and mouth but also leading to abdominal surgery.  It is only advised to feed your dog raw bones and always supervise.

Ingredients to Include in a Golden Retriever’s Diet

You should consider different ingredients when choosing the right nutrition for a golden retriever. That doesn’t mean you have to spend a fortune on food, however, and there is some great advice in this article on how to save on dog food.

Common ingredients in commercial dog food include:

Meat or/ and meat meal

• A rich source of protein.
• Repairs body and organ tissues.
• Strengthens and improves bone flexibility.
• Regenerates cell and blood components.

Wholemeal grains

Examples are brown rice, barley, oats, and bulgur (grounded wheat). They are an essential source of energy.

Vitamins and minerals

• They boost the immune system.
• Vegetables and fruits.
• A rich source of fiber for egestion.

Healthy fats

• Ideal for reproduction and pregnancy.
• Helps the body to absorb nutrients.
• Maintain skin health and body insulation.
• Helps with inflammatory issues.

Prebiotics

Aids digestion and good gut health. Ensure you give your pet plenty of fresh, clean water throughout the day.

Also see:
Older Pet Care
Toxic Essential Oils for Dogs
How To Soothe A Dog’s Upset Stomach Naturally
Dog Bloated Stomach Home Remedy
How Often Should I Walk My Dog?

Dry vs. Wet Food

You will find that most Golden Retriever foods eat either wet or dry.

Dry Food Merits

• It is cheaper than wet food.
• You can store and divide it into portions easily.
• It is available in smaller packages than wet food.
• It is the best treat to boost your dog’s energy.

Wet Food Merits

• They have a lot of moisture content that is good for your dog.
• It is tastier than dry food.
• It contains fewer calories, which are more suitable for your Retriever.
• Have a longer shelf life.

How Much Should a Golden Retriever Eat?

Golden Retrievers weigh 45 to 80 pounds and should be fed two cups of dry dog food daily. Be sure to mix wet food with dry food in their diet!

The golden retriever is a large dog breed, usually over 45 pounds at maturity. Their diet must consist of the right foods to stay healthy and happy! Daily, a golden retriever must eat 2 cups of dry food and 1/2 cup of wet food. This should be split into two meals, one in the morning and one later. To keep your dog full and active, it is important to feed them small portions more frequently during the day instead of just once or twice a day.

Summary

Understanding the nutritional requirements of your Golden Retriever is essential for their optimum health. Providing a specially formulated Golden Retriever diet is also recommended. Many top brands available from your vet or pet shop can perfectly match your chosen breed’s diet requirements. Always follow the manufacturer’s feeding guides and seek help if you have concerns about your pet’s weight or health. It’s important to understand that some Goldens have a big appetite, and if you meet their nutritional needs, you will prevent many health conditions from arising.

This article was brought to you by Pet Insurance Australia, providing the best possible pet cover through our cat insurance and dog insurance plans.

Nadia Crighton

Nadia Crighton is a renowned and accomplished professional in the fields of Journalism, Public Relations, and Writing, with an extensive career spanning over 25 years, 20 of which have been dedicated to promoting the health and well-being of pets.

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